THURS-097 - Comparing Substance Use Prevention Messaging on Michigan College Campuses
Thursday, April 23, 2026
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM PST
Location: Plaza Foyer, Plaza Level
Area of Responsibility: Area VI: Communication Keywords: Alcohol and Substance Abuse@@@Health Communication@@@University/College Health, Subcompetencies: 6.2.1 Describe the intended outcome of the communication (e.g., raise awareness, advocacy, behavioral change, and risk communication)., 4.4.5 Identify implications for practice. Research or Practice: Research
Student Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Analyze substance use prevention messages used on Michigan college campuses.
Evaluate alignment of messages with evidence-based public health practice.
Compare and contrast the effectiveness of existing substance use prevention methods that Michigan college campuses use.
Brief Abstract Summary: Hear how substance use prevention messaging on Michigan college campuses varies in terms of goals, level of prevention, and target populations. Examine whether these messages reflect evidence-based practices and align with public health principles. Discover future prevention efforts by analyzing how messaging strategies may influence student engagement, risk perception, and access to support services.
Detailed abstract description: Substance use prevention messaging on college campuses can influence student attitudes, behaviors, and access to support. This study examines the substance use prevention messaging utilized across Michigan colleges and universities. Data were collected through a review of publicly available campus materials. Messages were categorized by their goal (harm reduction or abstinence), level of prevention (primary, secondary, or tertiary), and target population (universal, selective, or indicated). The study aims to better understand how institutions frame substance use prevention, and whether these approaches reflect evidence-based practices. The poster will offer insight into how messaging strategies may influence student engagement, risk perception, and access to support services, and can provide recommendations for more inclusive and effective prevention efforts in higher education settings.
