Research Base

All Stars Has Two Goals         

• Prevent risky behaviors among adolescents

• Help adolescents build positive and bright futures

The prevalence of substance use increases as adolescents grow older. Research shows the later the age someone begins to use substances, the less likely they will have problems later in life. The goal of All Stars is to prevent use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, prescription drugs and inhalant use for as long as possible during the most at-risk years for adolescents. When All Stars is well implemented from the end of elementary school through high school it delays the onset of substance use. As an added benefit, All Stars also prevents other behaviors, including early sexual activity, bullying and fighting. Whatever risky behavior exists, it is All Stars’ goal to reduce it, postpone it and prevent it.

The second goal of All Stars is to give kids hope and envision a bright and positive future for themselves. Research shows kids who have a clear vision for their future, know what they need to do to make it happen and believe risky behaviors will get in the way of it will more likely achieve the future they desire. All Stars inspires kids to dream about, develop and carry out a plan for a positive and bright future.

All Stars Is Research Based

With over 30 years of research conducted in the field of substance use prevention, much is known today about what works and what doesn’t work. From the beginning, All Stars has always applied cutting-edge research knowledge into its development and approach. Nothing is done in All Stars unless the research suggests it works.

Every session and activity in each All Stars program is designed to change qualities that research shows accounts for why adolescents engage in risky behaviors. The various All Stars programs address the following qualities to one degree or another:

• Normative beliefs

• Personal commitment to not use

• Positive relationships with peers and important adults

• Parent/Adult attentiveness

• Beliefs about consequences

• Idealism

• Positive character

• Goal setting skills

• Decision making skills

• Resistance skills

All Stars Works

Many evaluation studies over many years have shown All Stars consistently does what it is intended to do. The following published reports from All Stars evaluation studies, along with being listed on the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, provides solid evidence to its effectiveness. We are continually invested in program evaluation, but most importantly, we want to ensure All Stars works with your kids. Our customized outcome evaluation services for each program offers you the solid evidence you deserve to have to show your investment in All Stars was well worth it!