Topic 5 Challenges During the Implementation of the Program

Balance between the already developed program and its adaptation to specific circumstances and population needs.
Three different approaches, depending on the program:
- Adoption of the existing program,
- Adaptation of the existing program to the specific needs of the population,
- Implementation based on the community needs.

Adoption of the Existing Program: Pros and Cons

Adopt with high fidelity to increase the likelihood of the same outcome.
The adaptation to the cultural characteristics of the community is limited.
As the programs are already evidence-based there is a high likelihood of achieving the required aims.
The necessary resources are already described.
Possible lack of fit with the community.
Some evidence-based programs take decades to be properly evaluated, by which time the community needs can change.
The implementation of the program in the actual community may differ from the implementation within the research study.
The outcomes may not be relevant to the community.

Adaptation of the Existing Program to the Specific Needs of the Population: Pros and Cons

There is a high likelihood for high response rates
The program may be more relevant to the specific culture of linguistic characteristics of the community.
The key program components may be modified, which can negatively influence the effectiveness.

Implementation Based on the Community Needs: Pros and Cons

Significant acceptance
Program developers may be the first to empirically evaluate the program and its outcomes.
The main obstacles regard the period and energy necessary for the program development;
Program can be ineffective
Funding obtainment can pose a significant challenge.

The prevention programs may not seem like a primary priority
The implementers need approval from the:
- Superintendents
- Principals
- Teachers
- School board
- Different community members.
The usual low dose of exposure to the impact of universal preventive programs may lead to low effects
Universal preventive programs were shown to have the highest impact when they have sufficient duration and intensity when they aim to develop protective factors and resilience and are focused on common problems, that affect large portions of the population.
The poor implementation can be the result of:
- Unsupportive regulations
- Unsupportive school policies
- Lack of adequate funding
- Lack of commitment
- Lack of capacity
- Lack of leadership.

Overcoming the Challenges