BARRIERS TO PRIMARY PREVENTION EFFORTS IN THE SCHOOLS - ARE WE THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE TO THE TRANSFER OF KNOWLEDGE

Dialogue and debate regarding the definition of prevention has subside d and has been replaced by research and information regarding pathways to dysfunction and effective primary prevention strategies. In spite of the solid research base and the strong desire of practitioners to a pply prevention strategies, there continues to be sporadic implementat ion in schools. Barriers to the implementation of primary prevention p rograms include traditional professional practice within psychology, l ack of communicating pertinent information between professions and pol icymakers, commitment of resources, and limited understanding of the p athways to successful and widespread implementation. Recommendations t o address these barriers are discussed.