Project DARE: no effects at 10-year follow-up

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1999 Aug;67(4):590-3. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.67.4.590.

Abstract

The present study examined the impact of Project DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), a widespread drug-prevention program, 10 years after administration. A total of 1,002 individuals who in 6th grade had either received DARE or a standard drug-education curriculum, were reevaluated at age 20. Few differences were found between the 2 groups in terms of actual drug use, drug attitudes, or self-esteem, and in no case did the DARE group have a more successful outcome than the comparison group. Possible reasons why DARE remains so popular, despite the lack of documented efficacy, are offered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking / prevention & control*
  • Child
  • Curriculum
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Health Education*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Smoking Prevention*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Treatment Outcome