An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of ‘The Change Attitude of Amphetamine Abuse Program’ in Students, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

Abstract

Abstract

            Nakhon Ratchasima Province Health Office selected and modified the package, ‘Change attitude camping program’ in order to study some students who used to expose to amphetamine in Nakhon Ratchasima province. During 2000-3, total 68 camps with 3,586 students were performed. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Methodology: The study was descriptive design. The samples were selected in 4 districts. Self administered questionnaire among students, parents and teachers were conducted before attending the camp and at the end of 1st, 4th and 12th month after the program. Results: 320 students answered the questionnaire. Most of them were male (78%). Average age was 15.7 years. The study showed an increase of the level of self esteem and relationship in family significantly (p<0.05). Behaviors of school absence, alcohol abuse and smoking decreased after attending the camp. The data also showed a decrease of amphetamine consumption at the end or 4th month after training. However, 9% of the students came back to use the drug again after one year of the program. Conclusions: The study showed the effectiveness of the program in changing students’ behavior. However, in order to keep practicing in new behavior, the program should be followed up continually while environment should be improved for students also.