Implementation of the Icelandic Prevention Model in the Netherlands: The perspective of schools

Abstract

Around a quarter of Dutch adolescents start drinking at an early age, which is linked to, among other things, school problems and delinquent behaviour. Iceland has developed a model that has most likely contributed to a strong decrease in alcohol use at an early age among Icelandic youth. Therefore, the Trimbos Institute and the Netherlands Youth Institute initiated a pilot study to investigate the potential usefulness of implementing the IPM in the Netherlands. The current study aimed to gain insight into needs, roles and cooperation of schools in implementing the IPM. Thirteen schools from all six pilot municipalities were interviewed. Results obtained through qualitative analysis showed that the implementation is generally perceived positive, with room for improvement. Schools have a clear picture of roles, but expectations are unclear; schools identify risk behaviour rather than preventing it, the municipality takes initiative to organise activities but does not follow up, and the role of the Healthy School Advisor is not fully exploited. Regarding needs, schools desire training, more knowledge, youthworkers, and leisure activities. Further research could focus on how cooperation between municipalities, schools, and parents can be stimulated and how guidance from the municipality can be adjusted to the expectations of schools.