Community based prevention: does the Communities That Care (CTC) framework apply to Germany?

Abstract

Background: The CTC Youth Survey, is based on a meta-analysis of longitudinal studies of youth development to identify malleable risk and protective factors for adolescent problem behaviors, e.g., substance use. CTC was developed in the U.S. and was transferred to Germany recently. This study aims at analyzing the transferability of the risk factors and their utility for the German context. Methods: Self-reported data from N=978 students aged 12-15 years was analyzed applying sensitivity and specificity analyses as well as predictive validity using logistic regressions. Findings: In general, the mean sensitivities of the risk factor scales ranged between 43% and 49% for the grades 6-9 and were lower than the respective specificities (73% - 77%). Favorable attitudes toward drug use and problems with family management showed good sensitivity scores; whereas, e.g., school grades and history of family problems did not. Odds ratios for the risk factors ranged from moderate to very strong. Discussion: Although risk factors seem to be of universal validity, the measurement of those has to be adjusted thoroughly when transferred to other countries.