Project DARE: No effects at 10-year follow-up

The present study examined the impact of Project DARE (Drug Abuse Resistanc e Education), a widespread drug-prevention program, 10 years after administ ration. A total of 1,002 individuals who in 6th grade had either received D ARE or a standard drug-education curriculum, were reevaluated at age 20. Fe w differences were found between the 2 groups in terms of actual drug use, drug attitudes, or self-esteem, and in no case did the DARE group have a mo re successful outcome than the comparison group. Possible reasons why DARE remains so popular, despite the lack of documented efficacy, are offered.