Peer Group Leadership Program in Drug Abuse Prevention 1970–1971 Academic Year

The authors report a study which reviews, and evaluates in depth, the initial year of an innovative Peer Group approach to drug abuse prevention in the schools of New York City. The report was prepared for the Board of Education and the citizenry of New York City. The aim of the study was to facilitate the refinement of the program into the most effective drug prevention modality possible.

The study covers such areas as the history and goals of the program; the structure and distinctive features of the program; the administrative structure; reports of interviews with key program staff and student participants; the role of various components of the program; methods of student and staff selection and training; details of program operation; factors related to peer leader involvement; attitudes and behaviors of student participants, and perceptions of high school principals regarding the program. The authors draw conclusions, and make recommendations relative to the program.