The Spectrum of Prevention
The Spectrum of Prevention is a Prevention Institute tool for developing system-wide change. It has been used nationally in a wide range of prevention initiatives including violence prevention, traffic safety, tobacco prevention, and the promotion of nutrition and physical activity. It helps to architect a multifaceted range of initiatives. In Salinas, the tool was used by the Core Group to review existing efforts and for planning further initiatives and should help in structuring ongoing efforts in violence prevention.

The Spectrum identifies six levels of intervention which enable practitioners to move beyond an educational approach to achieve broad prevention goals. Each level is necessary, but not sufficient to address violence within communities These levels, delineated in the following chart, are complementary and when used together produce a synergy which results in greater effectiveness than would be possible using a single level of the Spectrum in isolation or any linear model. This synergy enables violence prevention advocates to have a greater effect on community norms than by a focus on any one level alone.

The Spectrum of Prevention

Influencing Policy & Legislation Developing strategies to change laws & policies.

Changing Organizational Practices Adopting regulations & shaping norms.

Fostering Coalitions & Networks Convening groups & individuals for greater impact.

Educating Providers Informing providers who influence others.

Promoting Community Education Reaching groups with information & resources.

Strengthening Individual Knowledge & Skills Enhancing individual capacity.

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