What is the purpose of normative education in substance use prevention?

The purpose of normative education in substance use prevention is to provide accurate perceptions of peer behaviors. This approach focuses on correcting misperceptions that individuals may have about how prevalent substance use is among their peers. Often, people, particularly adolescents, overestimate the level of substance use among their peers, which can lead to increased engagement in those behaviors themselves due to the belief that ‘everyone is doing it.’

By implementing normative education, programs aim to share factual information about the actual rates of substance use, demonstrating that most peers do not engage in substance use. This can help individuals feel less pressured to conform to perceived norms and instead make healthier choices based on a more accurate understanding of their social environment.

This method is effective because it empowers individuals, particularly youth, to re-evaluate their beliefs and choices in the context of their social norms, which can ultimately lead to reduced substance use and healthier behaviors.