Session: Young Adults in Transition: Connecting Basic Science, Prevention Science and Application (Society for Prevention Research 21st Annual Meeting)

SESSION INTRODUCTION:     The transition from adolescence to adulthood can involve significant change and challenges. This period typically involves a transition to a more independent and autonomous lifestyle, which may include participation in the workforce, the military, or entry into college. This period of increased independence, decision making and control is a period of increased risk for problematic alcohol and drug use and other associated risk behaviors. Important factors during this period that may contribute to this increased risk include individual factors, such as neurobiologically-based risk traits related to impulsivity, as well as social- contextual changes such as reduced parental control, changes in one’s social network, enhanced peer influence, and greater access to alcohol and drugs. This symposium will focus on the development and application of prevention interventions in emerging adults. Studies will focus on substance use in college students and young adult drivers. 

The first presenter will discuss a study to examine questions about the mechanisms of negative urgency among a college population, as this trait may be a useful targeting variable for those at risk for problematic substance use and may have important applications for prevention interventions. The second presenter will present findings from a study that examined the effects of brief alcohol interventions on marijuana use of college students.  The third presenter will discuss findings on risk profiles of emerging adult DUI offenders and implications for targeting and tailoring the implementation of prevention interventions.  The Discussant will highlight key themes that appear from the presentations and findings presented.  A moderated discussion will allow for dialogue about important considerations and challenges in working with the emerging adult population, with implications for prevention interventions and future research.