Essential Standard 6. ATOD Essential Standard 6.ATOD.3 Apply risk reduction behaviors to protect yourself and others from alcohol, tobacco, & other drug use.

Clarifying Objective 6. ATOD. 3 Clarifying Objective 6.ATOD.3.1 Use effective assertive refusal skills to avoid pressure to use alcohol and other drugs.

Refusal Skills Some people may lack self-confidence or the necessary skills to refuse alcohol and drug use when pressured. Adolescents must recognize direct and indirect attempts of pressure and respond assertively through the use of refusal skills.

Refusal Skills Skills are learned behaviors Athletes, teachers, and doctors must practice specific skills in order to improve performance Students will need opportunities to develop and practice refusal skills.

Examples of Refusal Skills Refusal skills can include saying no assertively and confidently using “I” messages I am not interested No thanks, I don’t drink I do not want to Walking away from a tempting situation I have to go home I have to be somewhere in five minutes I am meeting someone

Examples of Refusal Skills Suggest a healthy alternative Let’s go to hang out with… I want to watch the new… Let’s find something better to do Make an excuse or give a reason not to use and leave the situation I’m allergic I have a health condition this is affected by I will lose my spot on the team