Recorded presentation

Forrest G. Hartl¹, Miguel Chion, MD, MPH², Edgar M. Garcia¹, and Molly M. Jackson¹. (1) Educational Theatre Programs, Kaiser Permanente, 815 Colorado Blvd. #103, Los Angeles, CA 90041, 323-259-4531, Forrest.G.Hartl@KP.org, (2) Education, AIDS Project Los Angeles, 3550 Wilshire, #300, Los Angeles, CA 90010

Background: Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Programs (ETP) created Nightmare on Puberty Street (NOPS), a live interactive production geared towards middle school students throughout California. Risk behaviors (bullying, substance abuse, and sexual activity) are among the first causes of morbidity and mortality for youth (15-24). NOPS increases awareness and knowledge around health issues relevant to developing adolescents, and encourages healthy choices. NOPS trains students in role-plays to highlight issues and practice life skills. Methods: Using a quasi-experimental pre and post-test control group design, data was collected from middle school students throughout California. Survey domains included demographics, health issue awareness, assessed risk and behavioral intentions to reduce their risk. ETP estimates data collection from 3,000 students for the experimental group and 200 students for the control group. Data analysis, including frequencies, chi-square and t-test, is performed using SPSS. Results: Preliminary data from the experimental group (N=73) shows a mean age of 13 years old, 53% female. 30% of the students were Latinos, 15% African American, 15% Caucasian, and 14% Asian. The most frequent issues reported were: talking to their parents, asking for help, making their own decisions, peer pressure and dealing with depression. There was a significant increase in intention to call an anonymous hotline for information/help (p<0.01). Students stated they understand better decisions, peer pressure, changes in body, and talking to parents’ issues. The show was rated as great and good. Data will be collected through 2004. Control data findings will be presented.

Conclusions: Findings and lessons learned will be presented.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to

1.Define how the performing arts can function as innovative and effective health education and prevention program. 2.Identify the current issues affecting middle school students in Southern California.
• Recognize how critical health messages can be included in an educational theatre program.
• Analyze supplementary activities (follow up exercises, role-plays, and workshops) that support educational theater.

Keywords: Education, Adolescents

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Kaiser Permanente employee

Recorded presentation