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Now more than ever, the preteen and teenage years can be a tumultuous time. Young people constantly face strong temptations and hard choices. While it will never be easy, Adrienne Duke Marks, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System specialist, is using real-world experiences to give young people the confidence to say no to vaping, one of the leading issues among young people.

In her work, Adrienne specializes in human development and family studies. She delivers a series of programs in both communities and schools with the positive youth development (PYD) framework in mind. PYD emphasizes the five Cs that promote well-being in young adults. These include confidence, competence, caring, character, and connection.

Adrienne has developed a series of anti-vaping programs called Escape Vapes. This program includes materials for parents, students, and educators. The program takes aim at the well-known myth that vaping is less harmful than traditional cigarettes.

“I am excited that the Human Sciences Extension team continues to educate youth and parents about vaping. The devices, vaping substances, and popular brands are changing so rapidly, so it is important that Alabama has people like us creating research-informed material to help educate Alabama families.  It is an honor be able to serve youth and families in Alabama.” — Adrienne Duke Marks

During its first five years, Escape Vapes reached more than 7,000 youths and adults in Alabama. While it started as an awareness program, it has evolved to include information on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vaping devices, the mental health issues associated with vaping, and the lung problems that we now know are caused by vaping THC.

Adrienne isn’t planning to stop here. Her goal is to continue adapting programming for adults and adolescents, as researchers learn more about vaping and its effects on the mind and body. Young people need to understand the harmful effects of vaping, but parents also need to understand why their teens are turning to vaping devices. She said while many researchers tend to study problems, she studies solutions. Adrienne has plans to continue her research to improve the Escape Vapes program and empower future generations to choose to say no.

Adrienne’s work with the Escape Vapes programs is just one of the many ways to discover bright futures. Whether it is helping with life’s transitions or creating a more nutritious plate, an Alabama Extension educator in your area is working to find practical solutions, provide opportunities, and empower people. Discover more at www.aces.edu/discover.