Can I change this? Program adaptation in the real world

The adolescent pregnancy rate in the U.S. was at its lowest rate in 30 years, down 36% since its peak in 1990, however a recent report indicated a 3% increase in the birth rate from 2005 to 2006 for adolescents ages 15-19. The U.S. continues to have the highest adolescent pregnancy and birth rates of all industrialized nations. Racial and ethnic disparities continue to persist, with the pregnancy rate for Whites, ages 15-19 in 2002 at 65 per 1,000 women, compared to 131 and 134 per 1,000 for Hispanics and Blacks, respectively. Moreover, approximately nine million youth, ages 15-24 acquired an STD each year. Research demonstrates that science-based programs (SBP) are an effective method to reducing the pregnancy and STD risk among youth. As part of the CDC's Promoting Science Based Approaches (PSBA) program, the Adaptation Guidelines were developed to assist youth serving professionals interested in adapting and implementing SBP. We will discuss how the Adaptation Guidelines fit into a systematic program planning, implementation, and evaluation process called PSBA-GTO. In addition, we will describe the phases of adaptation that are designed to prepare practitioners to identify the most appropriate adaptations and learn how to effectively monitor them. In doing so, we will define the key terms of adaptation, including core components, BDI logic model, and make a distinction between green, yellow, and red light adaptations. Lastly, we will report recommendations from local program providers, including the need for brief, practical, and user-friendly adaptation resources and tools.