PROSPER Ohio is implementing the family-based Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14 in 10 counties throughout Ohio, as part of a delivery system that includes both family-based and school-based programs to reduce risk behaviors and build resilience around youth and families.
What is Strengthening Families 10-14?
All partner school 6th graders and a caring adult from home are invited to participate in Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14 (SFP 10-14). SFP 10-14 is an interactive program to prevent teen substance misuse and other behavior problems, strengthen parenting skills and build family cohesion. The program consists of 7 sessions, 2 hours each. Youth and adults are separate for the first hour of programming and reunite for strengthening activities the second hour. Most programming opportunities also include a weekly meal for the family to enjoy together. SFP 10-14 sessions are led by a trained volunteer in a community setting.
This scientifically tested curriculum:
- helps parents/caregivers learn nurturing skills that support their children,
- teaches parents/caregivers how to effectively discipline and guide their youth,
- gives youth a healthy future orientation and an increased appreciation of their parents/caregivers, and
- teaches youth skills for dealing with stress and peer pressure.
The program addresses youth risk and protective factors.
Risk Factors
- Aggressive or withdrawn behavior
- Negative peer influence
- Poor school performance
- Lack of pro-social goals
- Poor relationship with parents
Protective Factors
- Positive future orientation
- Peer pressure resistance skills
- Pro-social peer relationships
- Positive management of emotions
- Empathy with parents
Program Benefits
- A research study conducted by the Partnerships in Prevention Science Institute (insert link: http://www.ppsi.iastate.edu/) found a return of $9.60 for every dollar spent implementing the Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14.
- Schools are better places to learn, employers have less distracted employees, substance misuse treatment needs are reduced, and people have less involvement with law enforcement.
Recognition for Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14
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Exemplary Program, Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention
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Exemplary Program, U.S. Department of Education
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Model Program, Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
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Model Program, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration/NREPP
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Program of Distinction, National 4-H Headquarters & Cooperative State Research, Education, & Extension Service
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Universal Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse
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Promising Program, Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development
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Awarded in 2007: Annie E. Casey Foundation Family Strengthening Award