Over the last decade, a number of evidence-based programs for at-risk youth have been developed, tested, and found to be highly effective. The critical importance of using scientifically based approaches to address the behavior problems of adolescents is illustrated by the Surgeon General’s Report on Youth Violence (2000) which stated:

 “Our review of the scientific literature supports the main conclusion of the report: that as a Nation we possess knowledge and have translated that knowledge into programs that are unequivocally effective in preventing much serious youth violence.  Most of the violence prevention strategies and interventions currently employed at both the national and local levels either have not been evaluated with rigor or have been evaluated and found to be ineffective,” and, “The Nation cannot afford to waste resources on ineffective or harmful interventions and strategies-or to further jeopardize the well being of youth who may be assigned to ineffective programs.” 

Despite the great potential of evidence-based treatment programs in addressing the learning and behavioral disorders of children and adolescents, few youth in need receive these services, few communities know of the availability of such services, and significant gaps remain in our understanding of the degree to which evidence-based programs are effectively disseminated. Estimates suggest that only 1% of at-risk youth receive the academic and behavioral intervention services they need.  What is now needed is broader implementation of these programs and systematic study of the degree to which they have the intended impact on local communities.  In addition, we need to identify the factors that enhance successful transfer of these models into everyday community practice. Thus, while scientifically based programs exist, the translational research necessary to successfully implement these programs and arm local communities with them is severely hindered.

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