VIP Program for Risky Behaviors

This trial tests the Values in Perspective (VIP) program to determine its effectiveness in helping young people avoid risky behaviors such as substance use, unsafe sex, and delinquency. The program aims to enhance self-awareness, ethical decision-making, and goal-setting among youths. The researchers seek to determine if this approach can serve as a useful and culturally relevant method to support positive development in middle and high school students. The trial seeks students in grades 6-12 who live in Miami-Dade County and qualify for free or reduced lunch. Participants will engage in a 26-week course focused on reducing risky behaviors. As an unphased trial, this study offers students the chance to contribute to valuable research that could improve youth development programs.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that the Values in Perspective (VIP) program is a structured approach that helps young people make better choices and avoid risky behaviors. This program promotes self-awareness and ethical decision-making without involving any physical health risks, as it does not use medicine or medical treatments. As an educational program, the VIP program is generally considered safe.

The VIP Program is unique because it focuses on behavior modification through a structured 26-week course aimed at reducing risky behaviors. Unlike standard treatments that might rely heavily on medication or brief counseling sessions, this program emphasizes long-term engagement and personalized strategies for risk reduction. Researchers are excited about this approach because it has the potential to create lasting changes by empowering participants with practical skills and continuous support, which could lead to more sustainable outcomes compared to traditional methods.

Research has shown that the Values in Perspective (VIP) program, which participants in this trial will receive, can help young people avoid risky behaviors. In past studies, participants reported feeling more in control of their lives and making better decisions. These skills can help reduce behaviors like using drugs or alcohol and having unsafe sex. By focusing on self-awareness and long-term goals, the VIP program encourages healthier choices. Overall, early findings suggest the program might be a useful tool for promoting positive behavior changes in young people.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹