Evaluation of Alcohol Education—A Reassessment Using Socialization Theory

Abstract

There are increasing demands for alcohol and drug education programs to be accountable for their outcomes and expenditures. However, previous evaluation research has demonstrated minimal or no effects of educational programs upon adolescents' attitudes and behaviors regarding alcohol and drug use. Goals and methods for programs have been criticized; but it is argued that the apparent ineffectiveness of programs is even more fundamental, stemming from the lack of a sound theoretical basis for program development and evaluation. Adolescent socialization theory is reviewed for its relevance to adolescent drinking. The primary influence of parents and peers as socialization agents has major implications for the design of alcohol and drug education/prevention programs.