What is the main purpose of the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF)?

The main purpose of the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) is to facilitate a structured approach to substance abuse prevention that emphasizes the importance of guiding the selection, implementation, and evaluation of prevention activities. The SPF is designed to help organizations and communities assess their specific needs, choose appropriate interventions based on evidence, and measure the effectiveness of their efforts in a systematic manner. This framework promotes a strategic and data-driven approach to prevention work, ensuring that initiatives are tailored to the unique circumstances of communities and are based on best practices.

In contrast, while general policies for substance abuse, establishing national standards, and raising awareness of addiction issues are all relevant aspects of the broader substance abuse prevention landscape, they do not capture the specific, actionable focus that the SPF embodies. The SPF goes beyond mere policy creation, standard-setting, or awareness campaigns, and instead provides a roadmap for how to tackle prevention effectively at the community level.