PAAS Intervention for Adolescent Risky Behaviors

This trial tests a program called Pathways for African-Americans' Success (PAAS), which aims to reduce risky behaviors that might lead to HIV/AIDS and violence among African-American youth. Researchers seek to understand how this program affects brain regions linked to decision-making. Participants are divided into two groups: one receives the intervention immediately, while the other joins later. This trial suits African-American teens who can attend the six-week program with a parent or guardian and do not have major medical or behavioral issues. As an unphased trial, it offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to important research that could positively impact their community.

If you are on medications that affect the central nervous system, you may not be eligible to participate in the trial.

Research shows that the Pathways for African-Americans' Success (PAAS) program is safe for participants. Earlier studies found that PAAS improves parenting skills and reduces risky behaviors in teenagers, such as drug use and unsafe sex. No reports of negative effects from the program have emerged. PAAS, a family-focused program, aims to strengthen African-American families. This approach not only reduces risky behaviors but also supports better school performance. Overall, evidence suggests that PAAS is well-received and effective in making positive changes without causing harm.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the PAAS intervention because it offers a fresh approach to addressing adolescent risky behaviors, especially within African-American families. Unlike standard programs that might focus solely on individual therapy or school-based interventions, PAAS involves the whole family in a series of weekly sessions over six weeks. This family-centered approach aims to build stronger support systems and open communication channels, potentially leading to more lasting behavioral changes. By engaging both adolescents and their families, PAAS hopes to create a more supportive environment that can effectively reduce risky behaviors and improve overall family dynamics.

Research has shown that the Pathways for African-Americans' Success (PAAS) program helps reduce risky behaviors in African-American youth. In this trial, participants in the experimental arm will complete a 6-week PAAS intervention. Studies have found that PAAS can improve parenting skills and decrease substance use and risky sexual behaviors. Young people in the program are more likely to delay sexual activity and avoid friends who drink or engage in risky sexual activities. The program also encourages racial pride and better parenting, which can help reduce depression in teens. Overall, PAAS has successfully promoted safer behaviors and supported healthier choices in young people.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹