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Interactive programmes vs non interactive ones for problematic students use of licit and illicit drugs
Summary of the evidence
School-based interactive programmes (i.e. those involving discussion) implemented in schools with predominantly special population, were found in a meta-analysis (Porath-Waller et al., 2010, 222 studies, N= 15 571) to be more effective than non-interactive programmes (i.e. a lecture) in:
- reducing smoking or non-smoking tobacco use, alcohol use or drinking/driving, “cannabis” or other illicit drugs’ use (SMD 0.21 vs. -0.05, p < 0.000);
- statistically significant delay in the onset of substance use;
- reducing youth cannabis use
