Which statement is most consistent with evidence-based drug education for athletes?

Which statement is most consistent with evidence-based drug education for athletes?

• A. Emphasizing scare tactics to deter drug use
• B. Focusing on punishment and zero tolerance exclusively
• C. Emphasizing supportive resources and problem-solving
• D. Avoiding any discussion of drug use

Answer: (C)

Evidence-based drug education for athletes focuses on building skills and providing support so athletes can make safer choices and seek help when needed. Emphasizing supportive resources and problem-solving aligns with research showing that interactive, skills-based approaches reduce risky use and encourage help-seeking, rather than relying on fear or punishment. Scare tactics can backfire by increasing reactance or denial, and punishment/zero-tolerance approaches often fail to address underlying factors and can erode trust and willingness to seek help. Avoiding discussion misses opportunities to equip athletes with strategies and information they need.

Evidence-based drug education for athletes focuses on building skills and providing support so athletes can make safer choices and seek help when needed. Emphasizing supportive resources and problem-solving aligns with research showing that interactive, skills-based approaches reduce risky use and encourage help-seeking, rather than relying on fear or punishment.

Scare tactics can backfire by increasing reactance or denial, and punishment/zero-tolerance approaches often fail to address underlying factors and can erode trust and willingness to seek help. Avoiding discussion misses opportunities to equip athletes with strategies and information they need.