Document Type
Portfolio
Publication Date
Fall 2025
Abstract
Goal Statement: The goal is to reduce alcoholism rates in Northampton County, PA by addressing stigma associated with alcohol use, providing age-appropriate education about alcohol in schools targeting youth, and supporting the creation of public policies that facilitate these prevention efforts.
Significant Findings: In Northampton County, the percentage of the population who report excessive alcohol use is higher than the national average (Lehigh Valley Health Network, 2022). Risk factors to alcoholism can include childhood trauma, lack of economic opportunities, and societal norms (SAMHSA, n.d b). Prevention can begin within our youth by implementing strategies that target societal norms. Male adults within Northampton County are at an even greater risk (White, 2020) due to stigma, stressors, and a lack of proper services. Creating a plan for advocacy can start with our youth in schools and progress to public policy that supports eliminating barriers to prevention within the community.
Objectives/Strategies/Interventions/Next Steps: When considering lowering alcoholism rates, it is important to consider prevention strategies to help support this. Understanding the risk and protective factors within the levels of the social ecological model can help determine where prevention efforts should lie. By looking at behavioral intention and social cognitive theories, it is seen that the common ground for alcoholism is the societal norms that surround it. This can be addressed through a mentoring program such as Big Brothers and Big Sisters (Social Programs that Work, 2018). Other advocacy that can be done is spreading awareness and promoting social change within the community. Understanding that societal norms play a huge part in mental health and creating available services within the community is recommended moving forward.
