Read the assessment and then the paper written. Write an introduction (250 words) and a conclusion (250 words) for the paper:

Assessment Description

In a 1,000-1,250-word paper, examine at least two substance use prevention programs in the United States. Refer to the list of useful websites at end of Chapter 16 to help you successfully complete your paper. Make sure you choose prevention programs and not intervention programs.

Your assignment must include the following for each program:

• Description of both programs (who, what, and where), including at least one family-focused treatment model used in the program
• Description of the goals of each program (why)
• Description of how each program is funded (how)
• Description ofthe effectiveness of each program including those programs with life skills associated with recovery that are based on research
• Description of factors that address community and groups at risk for substance use disorders
• Analysis of how government involvement may enhance or hinder each program's effectiveness

Include a minimum of four peer reviewed scholarly resources in addition to the textbook in your paper. Out of the four, a minimum of one peer reviewed scholarly resource should be referenced for each prevention program.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Course Resources if you need assistance.

PAPER-

LifeSkills Training (LST) Program

• Program Description

LifeSkills Training (LST) is a school-based initiative that focuses on middle school students, mainly those aged 10 to 14 years. It features classroom sessions that are facilitated by teachers who have been trained to deliver the curriculum effectively (Burnett et al., 2023). This program equips youth with the skills needed to resist social influences that encourage substance use and teaches them general life skills that support healthy behaviors. LST is implemented across the nation in various educational settings.

• Goals

The main objective of the LST program is to avert the initiation of substance use by fostering personal and social skills, boosting self-esteem, and alleviating stress and anxiety. This objective is accomplished by providing students with essential decision-making and problem-solving skills that are vital for steering clear of substance use (Burnett et al., 2023).

• Funding

LST receives its funding from a combination of federal, state, and local government sources, along with support from private organizations. Grants are frequently awarded to schools that are implementing LST by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and various state education departments (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2024).

• Effectiveness

The LST program has been thoroughly studied and is well-regarded for its effectiveness in decreasing the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs among young people. According to research conducted by Burnett et al. (2023), schools that implemented the LST program experienced a notable reduction in substance use among their students when compared to schools that did not have these programs in place. Furthermore, essential life skills like stress management and assertiveness have been proven to enhance the program's overall effectiveness.

• Community and Groups at Risk

LST meets the needs of the community by concentrating on middle school students, who are especially at risk for their first encounters with substances. It incorporates culturally relevant materials designed for various populations to improve engagement and relevance in different communities (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2024).

• Government Involvement

Government backing via grants and policy endorsements greatly boosts the reach and effectiveness of the LST program. Nonetheless, limitations in government budgets can occasionally restrict its growth, which may impede the program's success in areas that are underserved.

Strengthening Families Program (SFP)

• Program Description

The Strengthening Families Program (SFP) is an intervention designed with a family-centered approach, specifically aimed at families who have children between the ages of 6 and 16. This program includes sessions that cater to parents, children, and families collectively, with an emphasis on enhancing parenting abilities, developing children's social and life skills, and fostering better communication within the family. SFP is carried out in a variety of community environments, including schools and community centers throughout the United States (Cabrera-Perona et al., 2025).

• Goals

The SFP program is designed to minimize substance use and behavioral issues in children by strengthening family bonds and enhancing parenting abilities. By promoting positive family interactions and creating a supportive atmosphere, it aims to deter the onset of substance use in children (Cabrera-Perona et al., 2025).

• Funding

The funding for SFP is derived from various sources, which include federal and state grants, along with private contributions from community organizations and non-profit foundations. Notably, programs such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offer significant assistance (Villanueva-Blasco et al., 2024).

• Effectiveness

The SFP has demonstrated its effectiveness in enhancing family dynamics, which is linked to lower rates of substance use among young people. A study conducted by Cabrera-Perona et al. (2025) highlighted notable improvements in family cohesion and communication, which in turn help to reduce the risk of substance use. This program is especially impactful when family settings are prioritized in prevention strategies.

• Community and Groups at Risk

The SFP has proven to be effective in fostering better family dynamics, which is associated with lower rates of substance use among adolescents. Research by Cabrera-Perona et al. (2025) indicated significant enhancements in family cohesion and communication, which help to reduce the risk of substance use. The program is particularly successful when it focuses on family environments as part of its prevention initiatives.

• Government Involvement

Government participation is essential in supplying the vital resources and structures needed for the effective implementation of SFP. Nevertheless, alterations in policy and changes in funding can affect the sustainability and scalability of the program, occasionally obstructing long-term engagement.