Theoretical Background and Concepts in Prevention
Contact hours: 2 hours
Practical sessions: 1 hour
Self-study hours: 1 hour
Assessment hours: 12 hours
Description
This unit emphasizes the importance of theoretical frameworks in prevention science. It introduces participants to key theories such as the Ecology of Human Development Model, Social Learning Theory, and the Theory of Planned Behavior.
Key Topics
- Overview of key prevention theories.
- Analysis of risk and protective factors.
- Application of theories to intervention design.
Learning Outcomes
- Knowledge
Understand theoretical frameworks - Skills
Apply theories to analyze behaviors and design interventions. - Competences
Integrate theoretical knowledge into evidence-based practices.
Delivery and Assessment
- Interactive lectures, practical tasks, and case study analysis.
This unit focuses on the theoretical frameworks and key concepts that form the foundation of prevention science. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the theories that explain substance use behaviors and how these theories can guide the development of effective prevention strategies. The unit also examines the interplay between risk and protective factors, providing a structured approach to designing interventions.
1. Importance of Theoretical Frameworks in Prevention
The unit begins with an introduction to the role of theory in prevention science. Theories provide a systematic way to understand substance use behaviors, identify factors influencing them, and develop targeted interventions (Michie et al., 2014). This section emphasizes that prevention strategies rooted in theory are more likely to be effective and sustainable.
2. Key Theoretical Models in Prevention
Participants are introduced to several core theories that underpin prevention efforts, including:
- Ecology of Human Development Model (Bronfenbrenner, 1979): Explains how individuals interact with multiple environmental layers, such as family, school, and society, and how these interactions influence behavior.
- Social Learning Theory (Bandura, 1977): Highlights the role of observational learning, peer influence, and modeling in shaping substance use behaviors.
- Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991): Explores the connection between attitudes, subjective norms, perceived control, and behavioral intentions.
- Problem Behavior Theory (Jessor, 1991): Examines how risk behaviors co-occur and are influenced by personality and environmental systems.
Each theory is explained with practical examples to help participants understand their relevance to substance use prevention.
3. Risk and Protective Factors
This section delves into the concepts of risk and protective factors and their role in prevention efforts.
- Risk Factors: Characteristics or conditions that increase the likelihood of substance use, such as peer pressure, trauma, or socioeconomic challenges (UNODC, 2018).
- Protective Factors: Attributes or circumstances that reduce the likelihood of substance use, such as strong family bonds, supportive communities, and access to education (EMCDDA, 2021).
Participants learn how to assess and address these factors to design interventions that mitigate risks and enhance protective influences.
4. Application of Theories in Designing Interventions
The unit emphasizes the practical application of theories in creating prevention strategies. Participants explore how to use theoretical frameworks to:
- Identify key influences on substance use behaviors.
- Develop targeted interventions that address specific risk factors.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of prevention programs based on theoretical criteria.
Case studies and examples are used to illustrate how theories have been successfully applied in real-world prevention programs (WHO, 2018).
5. Ethical and Cultural Considerations
The unit concludes with a discussion of ethical and cultural considerations in using theoretical models. Participants are encouraged to adapt theories to fit the cultural and contextual needs of the populations they serve, ensuring inclusivity and respect for diversity.
Learning Takeaways
By the end of this unit, participants will:
- Understand the importance of theoretical frameworks in prevention science.
- Be familiar with key theories and their application to substance use prevention.
- Analyze risk and protective factors to inform prevention efforts.
- Use theoretical knowledge to design and evaluate effective prevention strategies.