Using the Strategic Prevention Framework to Prevent Drugged Driving

Introduction: Based on a national survey we conducted of substance abuse and highway safety professionals’ (inclusive of counselors, law enforcement officers, coalition leaders, and many others) needs related to preventing drugged driving and the existing scientific research in this area, we developed and evaluated the first web-based training resource on this topic for prevention professionals. We used innovative, interactive web-based technology and principles of instructional science to teach key concepts from the public health literature about drugged driving, and skills to plan ways to prevent it based on the principles of the Strategic Prevention Framework. We developed two distinct training programs: one about drugged driving as a public health and legal issue (“Drugged Driving Essentials”), and one about skills to prevent drugged driving using the Strategic Prevention Framework (“Strategic Skills”).

Methods: To rigorously evaluate this program, we conducted a randomized controlled trial, with PDF resources with equivalent information as the control materials. We recruited prevention professionals across the US through our connections with coalitions and by soliciting interest in our evaluation at CADCA and Lifesavers conferences. We randomly assigned each participant to either see our newly developed training resources or the control PDF resources. Participants took a total of four surveys: one at baseline, one after viewing the first training resource (week 1), one after viewing the second training resource (week 2), and a follow-up survey two months after completing the week 2 survey. We measured beliefs, intentions, and actions related to drugged driving prevention, and solicited feedback on aspects of our training resources to improve them.

Results: At the time of this submission, data collection is ongoing, but preliminary results show increases in knowledge about drugged driving as a public health and legal issue after taking our first Drugged Driving Essentials training program. Preliminary results also show increases in self-efficacy and actions taken to prevent drugged driving among professionals that took our second Strategic Skills training program.

Conclusions: There is strong need for and interest in training specific to drugged driving among prevention professionals, as this issue is nuanced and distinct from other substance abuse and impaired driving issues. The Strategic Prevention Framework offers a valuable way to for coalition members and organizations to plan drugged driving prevention interventions in their communities. Interactive online training resources can successfully teach content knowledge and planning and evaluation skills in a cost-effective and accessible manner.