A theory based intervention: effect on substance abuse prevention in adolescents

To assess the effect of a theory based intervention among adolescents in a study on intention of substance abuse avoidance among young adolescents, in Tehran, Iran. Fifty-five high school male students aged between 15 and 19 randomly were allocated into tow study groups: intervention and control group. The intervention group received an educational program based on the developed Reasoned Action Theory in order to examin its effect on beliefs, while the control group didnt receive any programs. The intervention group showed significant improvements in attitude, self efficacy (subjective norms exception) and substance abuse avoidance intention (P<0.001). A decrease in substance use and cigarette-smoking was reported by students in intervention group. Results of this study indicated that a theory based intervention was effective for substance abuse among adolescents.