Diffusion of the D.A.R.E and syringe exchange programs

Don C. Des Jarlais, Zili Sloboda, Samuel R. Friedman, Barbara Tempalski, Courtney McKnight, Naomi Braine

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

We examined the diffusion of the D.A.R.E program to reduce use of illicit drugs among school-aged children and youths and the diffusion of syringe exchange programs to reduce HIV transmission among injection drug users. The D.A.R.E program was diffused widely in the United States despite a lack of evidence for its effectiveness; there has been limited diffusion of syringe exchange in the United States, despite extensive scientific evidence for its effectiveness. Multiple possible associations between diffusion and evidence of effectiveness exist, from widespread diffusion without evidence of effectiveness to limited diffusion with strong evidence of effectiveness. The decision theory concepts of framing and loss aversion may be useful for further research on the diffusion of public health innovations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1354-1358
Number of pages5
JournalAmerican journal of public health
Volume96
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2006

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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