Principles of Primary Prevention: Theory and Practice

This course introduces the core theories and frameworks guiding sexual and domestic violence prevention, with emphasis on the Virginia Guideline for Primary Prevention by the Action Alliance. Students will learn to distinguish primary prevention from intervention and response strategies, apply the social-ecological model, and integrate Virginia’s prevention guidelines into practical projects. Through observation of real-world programs and hands-on design of community-level strategies, participants will develop skills to create effective, evidence-based prevention plans for campus and local settings.