Evaluation of Thiwáhe Gluwáš'Akapi Substance Use Prevention Program

Researchers at the Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health in the Colorado School of Public Health at the University of Colorado completed an intensive community-engaged process to rigorously adapt the Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14 for the cultural context of a Northern Plains reservation community, creating a program optimized for American Indian families, Thiwáhe Gluwáš'akapi (TG, sacred home in which family is made strong). This study will test the effectiveness of TG for delaying the onset of substance use among young adolescents. In response to requests from participating families and community partners to help address suicide risk among their youth, and based on preliminary evidence that the program may impact risk behaviors beyond substance use, the study will also test suicide risk outcomes among youth. Finally, in recognition of the potential for reciprocal influence on the adults participating in the program with their children, capitalizing on their motivation to make concomitant positive changes in their own lives, the current study will also examine effects on adult substance use. In summary, this study will test the effectiveness of TG for reducing risk for: (1) substance use among youth; (2) suicide risk among youth; and (3) substance abuse among adults.