School-based drug prevention in the United States: insights for Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper reviews effective school-based drug prevention programs implemented in the United States. Research studies in major academic databases, policy review papers from academic and research institutes, and government reports from funding and administrative agencies related to school-based drug prevention were reviewed. The states of California and Washington were used as examples to understand state-level efforts to implement drug prevention. Common principles of exemplar school-based drug prevention programs according to structure, content, and delivery were summarized. Relevant legislation and funding schemes that guide the implementation of such programs in the United States were likewise identified. Effective program principles, legislation, and funding schemes in the United States provide valuable lessons for determining future directions for drug prevention programs in Hong Kong.