Evaluating the effectiveness of an educational program aimed at improving healthy decisions among Native youth

Native American (NA) youth face many challenges including high rates of teenage pregnancy, depression, suicide, and substance abuse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Native Stand, which is a comprehensive healthy decision making program for NA youth. In the 2012-2013 school year, a cohort of NA youth (N = 144) in grades 9-12 were assessed with regard to their attitudes, knowledge, and intentions relating to various risk-related behaviors using validated scales immediately before and after completing the Native Stand program. Paired t-tests were conducted to measure differences between pre- and post-test assessments. Results showed significant positive changes in various areas including condom use attitudes (t = -2.78, p<.01), partner communication (t = 2.83, p<.01), suicidality (-2.93, p<.01), self-esteem (-2.42, p<.05), and healthy relationships (t = 4.78, p<.001). These results suggest that Native Stand has positive impacts on certain risk-related attitudes and knowledge. Results have implications for health and mental professionals who work with at-risk NA youth particularly within school settings.