Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

What was a prominent characteristic of prevention strategies in the 1980s?

1. Scare tactics

2. Community involvement

3. Parent-formed groups

4. Evidence-based practices

The correct answer is: Parent-formed groups

During the 1980s, a significant characteristic of prevention strategies was the rise of parent-formed groups. This period saw increased recognition of the essential role that families and their direct involvement play in preventing substance abuse and promoting overall community health. Parent-formed groups were instrumental in creating networks of support, fostering communication about issues related to substance use and its prevention, and advocating for healthier environments for children and adolescents. The emphasis on parent engagement also reflected a broader societal awareness of the impact of family dynamics and community support systems. By involving parents in prevention efforts, these groups aimed to empower them to take an active role in educating their children and influencing peer norms against risky behaviors. This grassroots approach was critical in shaping community responses to substance abuse and in establishing a foundation for future prevention strategies. In contrast, the focus on scare tactics tended to be more prevalent in certain campaigns during this time but did not define the overall approach to prevention. Community involvement, while important, was not as formally structured as the organized parent groups of the era. Evidence-based practices were just beginning to emerge as a concept towards the end of the 1980s, gaining traction in subsequent decades but not fully characterizing the prevention landscape at that time.