Prevention programs not only prevent youth substance abuse before they
start, they help reduce use among young people who already smoke or use
drugs, especially when they incorporate the characteristics most
associated with success, according to a major evaluation study from the
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. Programs that
combine life skills, interactive rather than passive classroom
techniques,
intensive participation, and strong implementation consistently show
stronger and longer-lasting positive outcomes.
http://www.health.org/govpubs/fo36/overview.asp