The word “literacy” usually describes the ability to read and write. Media literacy is the ability to identify different types of media and to understand the messages they’re sending.
Youths absorb a huge amount of information from a wider array of sources than their parents did. In addition to TV, radio, newspapers, and magazines, today’s youth use text messages, memes, viral videos, social media, and online video games.
The digital age has made it easy for anyone to create media discussing or portraying the use of drugs and alcohol.
Out of 16 million substance-related posts
on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok and Weibo,
76% depicted substance use in a positive light.
(Rutherford et al, 2022)
Parents and community educators can teach youth skills to identify credible sources of information about substance use and help counter misinformation. Rise Above Alcohol and Drugs (RAAD) is our public campaign to support that effort.
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7 Days: The Opioid Crisis in Arkansas
Don’t Run. Call 911. Flyer for Parties
Arkansas’s Opioid Crisis by County
Save AR Students Planning Guide
Drug Guide: A Comprehensive, Up-to-Date Source of Substance-Specific Information
