REPORTS
2013/2014 Hawaii Meth Use and Attitudes Survey
A statewide survey measuring attitudes and behaviors toward methamphetamine in Hawaii.Results of the 2013/2014 student survey revealed optimistic trends regarding anti-Meth behaviors and attitudes, demonstrating the positive impact that Hawaii Meth Project has on many students. Students were more aware of the anti-Meth message through advertisements as well as participation in Hawaii Meth Project educational presentations and outreach booths. Perceived accessibility of Meth declined, as well as the percentage of students who were offered Meth. More students agree that Meth is dangerous, even for one-time use, and social disapproval of Meth use among peers continues to rise at 96%. This shift in attitudes resonates throughout teen behaviors, as students reported lower rates of Meth use among close friends and family.
Reducing Demand for Crystal Meth in Hawaii: “Ohana” Involvement
Exploratory case study researching whether a parental outreach program can assist in preventing first-time Meth use in Hawaii children.This study interviewed Hawaii parents with teenage children to examine their knowledge of the effects of Meth use and the tools they use to discuss these effects with their children. Majority of participants were very familiar with the negative consequences of Meth use, reported discussing Meth with their children, and felt confident in their knowledge about Meth. The author discussed ways in which parental guidance, based primarily on indirect knowledge gained from the media and personal experience, can be supplemented with educational, research-based presentations by organizations like the Hawaii Meth Project. Although constant dialogue between parents and teens regarding Meth is helpful, the information presented by parents must be factual and believable in order to have a lasting impact on teens.