The Hertfordshire Drug Education Forum does not support drug
education that is purely based upon ‘shock’ tactics;
one-off lessons; or teaching methods which aim to engender
fear as an effective means of dissuading children and young
people from substance misuse or changing their behaviour.
This approach does not meet children and young people’s
entitlement to accurate, credible, and objective education
about drugs including alcohol, solvents and tobacco. Evidence
has shown that this approach may contain information which
is biased, exaggerated or even fabricated.
The way in which children and young people interpret and
respond to a ‘shock tactics’ approach will also
depend on their own beliefs and experiences, level of maturity
and understanding. Therefore, a wide range of options, rather
than just one response should be considered.
The DEF encourages teachers, facilitators and other professionals
working with young people to consider the following advice.
Effective programmes of drug awareness should aim to:
- Provide a balanced view and a range of holistic approaches.
One size does not fit all!
- Be delivered by professionals whose own training and knowledge
is up-to-date and relevant.
- Attempt to balance ‘negative’ messages about
drugs with ‘positive’ messages. (For example,
the use of medicines, support for those who experience
difficulties)
- Prepare children and young people for the responsibility
they must learn to take for themselves.
- Consider why materials designed to scare, shock or provoke
negative reactions from audiences are being used and in
what context they are appropriate.
- Ensure that appropriate warnings are given prior to using
resources or footage that may frighten or cause upset and
that support and guidance is provided after their use,
as necessary.
Involving ex-users in drug education should be considered
very carefully. If they are to be involved, this should be
because they are skilled in facilitating learning and competent
to work with children and young people, not simply by virtue
of their status as a former user.
If you are in any doubt about appropriate resources, messages
or teaching methods, please do not hesitate to contact:
Jane Holton – phone number
01438 843879
The Hertfordshire Drug Education Forum encourages those
working with children and young people to become familiar
with the DEF key principles
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