For well over 50 years, prevention science has generated practices and influenced policies that have improved countless lives throughout the lifespan by avoiding negative health and social outcomes (e.g., substance misuse, academic failure, violence, mental health problems) and strengthening conditions that enable individuals, families, and communities to thrive.

To aid in increasing awareness about how prevention science contributes to society, the Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center (PRC) has officially endorsed this definition of prevention science formulated and disseminated by the National Prevention Science Coalition (NPSC).

“Broad endorsement of this definition by institutions and organizations will help ensure that our common goals and practices can be clearly communicated to scientists, practitioners, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders that share the goal of helping all individuals achieve their potential through prevention science,” said PRC director Stephanie Lanza.