Brief interventions (BIs)
Brief interventions (BIs) are targeted, time-limited, low threshold
services that aim to reduce substance use and its associated risks, as
well as prevent progression to more severe levels of use and potential
negative consequences (Babor 2007). In general, BIs are delivered
in person and provide information or advice, increase motivation
not to use substances, and teach behaviour change skills
with the aim of reducing substance use. However, the way that
BIs have been defined and delivered has varied in the literature,
such as the number of sessions provided, the length of the intervention
sessions, and the format of delivery (Young 2012). It is
thus important to recognise common elements used to define BI.
One such component is the screening of potential participants. Although
screening has formed part of BIs in other settings, it often
does not take place in schools, although there are a few exceptions
(Hallfors 2006). A second common element of BIs is their short
length, as they generally last between one (Moyer 2002) and five
intervention sessions (Tevyaw 2004).