TESTING AND EVALUATING STRATEGIES

What counts as "EVIDENCE" can vary, and it is important to realize that an evidence base exists on a continuum. When considering the evidence base, it is important to take into account the strength of the evidence (e.g., number and quality of research studies) and the effectiveness of the programs (i.e., to what degree did they work as intended and produce the desired outcomes). Other factors, such as feasibility, usefulness and acceptability to potential recipients are also important aspects to consider. The evidence-based programs and resources in this training have been evaluated with strong research designs that have produced compelling results.

THE EVIDENCE BASE

Why is it important to have an evidence base?

After all, isn't doing something, even if it doesn't have evidence, better than doing nothing? We would like to say that any efforts at prevention are worthwhile, regardless of the evidence base. The problem is that there are examples in the literature and lessons we've learned from other areas in which some prevention efforts have done more harm than good.