PreVenture (Personality-Targeted Interventions for Substance Misuse)
Resource Description
PreVenture is an evidence-informed prevention program that supports youth mental health and helps prevent or delay substance use and reduce related harms. Students first complete a brief personality questionnaire that identifies those who score high on one of four personality profiles linked to substance use: anxiety sensitivity, negative thinking, impulsivity, or sensation seeking. These students then join a small group with peers who share the same profile for two brief workshops. The workshops build confidence and cognitive behavioural skills suited to each personality style, helping students navigate common challenges such as academic stress, peer pressure, interpersonal conflict, and identity development. Workshops are led by trained school staff, such as teachers and counsellors, who complete facilitator training before delivering the program.
Overview
Developmental Stage
Early/Middle Adolescence (Grades 6–9); Late Adolescence (Grades 10–12)
Developed / Used in Canada
Developed and used in Canada
Tiers
Tier 2: Targeted
Evidence Category
Supported
Supports Offered
Facilitators complete a multi-level certification process, with training offered online and in person, and take part in a short continuing education activity each year to keep their certification active. Resources include a validated personality screening questionnaire for workshop placement, trait-specific student workbooks, facilitator guides, and post-training access to the PreVenture Zone digital portal (demonstration videos, promotional materials for students and families/caregivers, and ongoing training boosters). Schools can also use a built-in monitoring system to track fidelity and a student feedback survey to gauge engagement.
Clauses Addressed
- 2.1.7 – Early identification and support
- 3.1.7 – Early identification and support
- 2.1.9 – Avoiding ineffective approaches
- 3.1.9 – Avoiding ineffective approaches
- 2.2.8 – Building healthy coping strategies
- 3.2.8 – Building healthy coping strategies
- 2.2.11 – Targeted capacity building to manage life stressors
- 3.2.11 – Targeted capacity building to manage life stressors
- 2.2.12 – Building protective skills
- 3.2.12 – Building protective skills
Research Outcomes Summary
Several long-term randomized trials, following students for up to 7 years, found that PreVenture reduced drinking, binge drinking, and alcohol-related harms among participating students. One trial also found benefits for students in the same schools who did not take part in the workshops. Results varied somewhat by personality profile, but overall, PreVenture has consistent evidence of lasting benefits.
