Evidence strongly suggests that Thai adolescents are significantly at risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, and that associations between alcohol use and risky sexual behaviors exist. There are few behavioral-driven interventions, especially family-based interventions, targeting both alcohol use and risky sexual behaviors among young Thais. Accordingly, the goal of this international collaborative research project is to conduct a four year feasibility study for adaptation of Family Matters, a universal prevention program for substance abuse that involves parents and adolescents, to the Thai culture. This adapted program will be called the Thai Family Matters (TFM). Using a family-based approach in Thailand is appropriate for several reasons. The family is a very supportive unit in Thailand. The family unit is where young Thais primarily learn about culturally acceptable norms that are relevant to sexual behavior and alcohol/drug use. Thai investigators contribute to all phases of this study, including program adaptation, dissemination of study findings, and the preparation of a future application to assess the efficacy of TFM.

 

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