Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation of a Channel One Program

Abstract

The purpose of this evaluation was to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an alternatives program entitled Channel One. The evaluation design included the collection of process and outcome data. Results of the process evaluation indicated that the program was operating consistently with the philosophy and procedures of Channel One. The outcome data indicated significant improvement in democratic patterns and alternative participation, but also indicated increased use of some substances and in frequency of drunkenness. The cost data indicates that the participant costs ranged from $180 to $214. The slight positive findings in the democratic patterns and participation in alternatives were offset by the significant increases in substance usage. Therefore, this program was not cost-effective in terms of the final intended outcome.

Adolescent substance abuse prevention programs: Theories, models, and research in the encouraging 80's

“…Although school systems and social agencies invest a large share of their prevention resources in Alternatives programs, there is very little published evidence of their effectiveness as deterrents of substance use (Kim, 1981;Moskowitz et al, 1983Moskowitz et al, , 1984Cook et al, 1984;Stein et al, 1984). One study suggested that Alternatives programs with skills acquisition components and a large number of hours of programming, could be effective with "high-risk" youth (Tobler, 1986).…”

Preventing substance abuse with children and adolescents.

“…Community interventions create activities to replace or supercede substance use (Cullen, 1982;Johnson &Solis, 1983;Kim, 1983). An example is Channel One, a nationwide program to prevent adolescent drug abuse via alternative recreations and local projects (Stein, Swisher, Hu, & McDonnell, 1984). Involving nearly 3,800 young persons, the program demonstrates the scope of community interventions.…”