Youth Alternative Sentencing Program: a description and evaluation of an alcohol and marijuana intervention program

Int J Trauma Nurs. 1999 Jan-Mar;5(1):10-6. doi: 10.1016/s1075-4210(99)90077-9.

Abstract

An alternative program was designed for youth who were charged with an alcohol or marijuana offense in San Bernardino County, California. In place of a conviction, the youth could attend an extended educational program that emphasized their ability to change behavior and to understand the consequences of risk-taking behavior. An evaluation was completed by the participants, demonstrating that this population of youth began to experiment with alcohol and marijuana around 12 and 13 years of age. A large number of youths were identified for nontraffic offenses, which offered an opportunity to intervene before members of this population become involved in a motor vehicle crash.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / prevention & control*
  • Automobile Driving* / legislation & jurisprudence
  • California
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Marijuana Smoking / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Marijuana Smoking / prevention & control*
  • Patient Education as Topic / organization & administration*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Substance Abuse Treatment Centers / organization & administration*