Developing a Positive Approach to Substance Use Prevention in North American Indian Adolescents

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are developing and testing Native PATHS, a culturally adapted prevention program designed to reduce substance use initiation among Indigenous youth in 5th to 8th grade. This program addresses alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, which start earlier and progress faster among Indigenous youth compared to other groups. The study aims to gather preliminary data on how acceptable, feasible, and initially effective Native PATHS is in this population. The study includes two stages: Stage 1a involves talking circles with youth and their family members to get feedback on the program's cultural fit and implementation. This is followed by an open pilot trial. In Stage 1b, 60 youth will be randomly assigned to either receive the Native PATHS program or be placed on a wait-list control group. The program uses a strengths-based, behavioral economic approach focusing on increasing engagement in activities that do not involve alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, and reinforcing positive family rules and Indigenous parenting practices. Participants and their families will provide feedback after each session during the initial pilot phase. The study will measure past month and past three-month use of alcohol, marijuana, and cigarettes at baseline, at the end of treatment (up to 12 weeks), and six months post-treatment. Researchers will also assess intentions to use these substances and susceptibility to cigarette smoking. The total duration includes follow-up surveys at six months, with ongoing evaluation of the program's possible effects and mechanisms contributing to its impact.

Developing a Positive Approach to Substance Use Prevention in North American Indian Adolescents