Prevention science is the systematic application of scientific
methods to the study of the etiology, development, and prevention
of health and other social problems. Our focus is on preventing
substance abuse, substance dependence, and substance-related
problems. Prevention science encompasses both basic and applied
research and addresses tertiary, secondary, and primary prevention.
Prevention researchers recognize that alcohol-related problems
result from the interaction between individuals and their
larger environment, which encompasses social, cultural, economic,
and political factors.