Citation

Kulbok PA, Meszaros PS, Bond DC, Thatcher E, Park E, Kimbrell M, Smith-Gregory T. Fam. Community Health 2015; 38(1): 3-11.

Affiliation

University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville (Drs Kulbok and Thatcher and Ms Park); Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg (Dr Meszaros and Ms Kimbrell); Carilion Clinic Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Roanoke, Virginia (Dr Bond); and Virginia Cooperative Extension, Blacksburg (Ms Smith-Gregory).

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/FCH.0000000000000061

PMID

25423239

Abstract

This community-based participatory research project aimed to develop strategies to prevent youth substance use in a rural county. This article (1) describes the project phases, (2) examines unique contributions and considerations of youth involvement, and (3) explores the youths' perspective. Twelve youths, aged 16 to 18 years, joined parents, community leaders, and research specialists on the community-based participatory research team. The youths were integrally involved in all phases including the community assessment, community leader interviews, selection of a substance use prevention program, and program implementation. Youths reported sustained enthusiasm, experiences of authentic leadership, development of research skills, and greater awareness of their community.

Language: en