This paper describes the complexities involved in drug and alcohol education. The author emphasises the need to link drug and alcohol policies with the evidence of outcome studies and scientific developments in the area of drug prevention and demand reduction activities. Theoretical perspectives on drug and alcohol problems and their prevention are examined.

The three types of education which can be used for preventive purposes are examined in detail: focusing on the substance; focusing on the individual and on individual choice; and focusing on the context or environment in which the young person lives.