Drug abuse prevention in school: challenges and possibilities for the role of the educator

Abstract

The use of drugs is a major societal concern, and schools are considered a privileged space for the development of prevention and health promotion. However, the role of education as well as the promotion of preventive actions by teachers is unclear. This paper presents the results of action research conducted in two public schools in the city of São Paulo. We investigated the factors that might hinder the development of preventive actions at school as well as possible and pertinent actions according to the participants’ point of view. Several research tools were used, such as focus groups, training meetings and questionnaires. Teachers working in high schools were the subjects of the study. The assessment of their statements allowed the identification of factors that hinder the prevention of drug use in school and elements that can support training processes for these professionals. In addition, the study revealed that some of their positions and prior knowledge were consistent with the most promising predictive models, such as offering alternatives, health education, changes in the school environment and life skills training. A consideration of the knowledge and social representations of teachers as well as of the factors that hinder the implementation of educational activities may facilitate the development of drug use prevention projects and programs for schools.