The PEPS is a systematic and analytical process that synthesizes a body of knowledge on specific prevention topics. In focusing on drug abuse among children and adolescents, the approaches are designed for use by State drug abuse agencies, as well as by national, State, and local organizations that address issues related to families and children. The introduction to the volume details the rationale for using the family as the focal point for drug abuse prevention. Other chapters in the volume focus on drug abuse problems and the status of the American family, risk and protective factors and developmental models in the etiology of drug abuse, analysis of evidence and recommendations for practice, program development and delivery of family-centered prevention approaches, and emerging areas of research and practice. Appendixes contain supplemental information on PEPS participants, research and practice search protocols, the methodology used to arrive at recommendations, and collateral areas of interest and also include abbreviations, a glossary, and a resource guide. References, tables, and figures