Evidence-based family skills training programmes have been found to be a very effective way of preventing substance use among children and adolescents. Such programmes support parents and guardians to be better caregivers in very simple ways. A warm child-rearing style that strengthens the bond between children and parents and whereby parents act as role models, set rules for acceptable behaviour, closely monitor free time and friendship patterns and help children acquire personal and social skills is one of the most powerful protective factors against substance use and other risky behaviour.

 

View this infograph for more detailed information on how family skills programmes are effective in preventing substance use. 

 

UNODC provides family skills training to strengthen positive family functioning and avoid negative social and health consequences, including drug use, through the following programmes: 

 

The Strong Families Programme is a skills programme for families living in challenged and humanitarian settings such as rural or underserved areas with inadequate infrastructure or in conflict/post-conflict situations.

 

The Family UNited Programme aims to promote positive parenting strategies and support the development of children in order to prevent negative social outcomes in low- and middle-income countries.