Introduction
This section focuses on
two relatively new theories and their application – social norms theory and
environmental management. Social norms theory states that most young people
significantly overestimate the attitude and behavior norms of their peers
with regard to ATOD use and abuse. They then adjust their behavior toward
these inaccurate norms, and drug use and abuse increases. When presented
with actual norms data, young people will lower their own expectations and
consumption to conform more closely to that of their peers. Therefore, the
goal of social norms-based interventions is to correct misperceptions of
ATOD use norms by peers and, in turn, to reduce alcohol abuse and related
problems.
Environmental management is a comprehensive, coordinated
prevention approach, which stems from a large body of research and practice
in the area of public health. It works by focusing on the broader forces
that affect people’s health and safety and shape personal behavior, the
context or social ecology within which people make lifestyle choices. This
is accomplished by identifying and changing those factors in the
environment, including policies, laws, social norms, expectancies,
traditions and promotions, which contribute to unhealthy lifestyle choices
and problem behaviors.
After completing this lesson you should understand / be
able to
