Findings support the value of delaying alcohol initiation among teens (Spoth et al., 2009), and suggest that prevention efforts may be bolstered by helping youth understand that, even in the face of potential benefits, underage drinking increases risk for subsequent alcohol problems. As noted by Goldberg et al. (2002), existing risk-focused prevention programs might be improved through the addition of content that promotes healthy alternative activities for achieving the social and personal benefits that some youth otherwise may seek through alcohol involvement. Given the relative lack of alcohol-related health services that are available in rural compared to urban and suburban contexts (National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services, 2007), such prevention efforts are particularly needed in rural areas.
