Prevention Definitions…

(Based on the Institute of Medicine Model)

Prevention programs are designed to wholly prevent or delay the onset of problem behaviors or to intervene at the earliest stage possible in the development of these problems. There are three levels of prevention;  Universal, Selective and Indicated.   These levels are targeted at three population groups.

Universal Prevention

Targets the entire population without regard to risk factors, generally reaching a very large audience.

• Delay or prevent the onset of problem behavior.
• Target the entire population.
• All share the same general risk; individual risk is not assessed.
• Participate not recruited.
• Lower staff-to-audience ratios.
• Require less audience time and effort.
• Lower per person costs.

Selective Prevention

Targets a subgroup of the population, determined by general characteristics to be at risk

• Delay or prevent problem behavior.
• Selective prevention targets the entire subgroup regardless of their individual risk.
• The subgroup can be determined by a number of characteristics that significantly increase their risk of problem behavior.
• Recipients are recruited to participate.
• Programs address specific subgroup risk factors.
• Programs run for longer periods of time and usually require more participant time and effort than do universal programs.
• Costs of selective prevention programs are usually greater per person than those of universal prevention programs.

Indicated Prevention

Targets specific individuals experiencing early signs of problem behaviors, but without clinical diagnosis.

• Targets individuals experiencing early signs of problem behaviors, but without a clinical diagnosis.
• Stems the progression of problem behaviors and related disorders.
• Recipients are individually assessed and recruited into the program.
• Risk factors and problem behaviors are specifically addressed by the program.
• Programs can target multiple behaviors simultaneously.
• Programs are extensive and intensive.
• Programs require highly skilled staff.
• Indicated prevention strategies may be more expensive on a per-person basis than are universal and selective prevention strategies.