At risk populations include children of anxious parents, victims of abuse, accidents, violence, disasters or other trauma as well as those who have feelings of lack of control, low self efficacy, coping strategies and social support (WHO, 2004, p. 42).
Primary prevention, also known as universal prevention emphasizes prevention efforts to an entire population. This level of prevention is “especially suitable for school systems because there are opportunities to work with children from diverse backgrounds and before problems become evident” (Huberty, 2013, p. 358). Within schools, universal programs are able to avoid many of the effects of labeling that occur with selective programs where students are identified as being at risk, participation rates are higher and numerous risk factors can be addressed at the same time.
Secondary or selective prevention has an emphasis on working with at risk populations. These prevention techniques are received by approximately 15% of the population. When only a select group of students take part in prevention programs discrimination against these students may be perpetuated and their determined risk will be identified. However, these programs are able to directly influence those students who have been identified as at risk and this may be beneficial to the students receiving the programs. This level may be used within the school but not likely within the classroom.
Tertiary or indicated prevention the emphasis is placed on working with subgroups of the population. These prevention programs are received by approximately 5% of the population. The students who receive these programs are high-risk individuals who may show signs of suffering from anxiety but are not currently diagnosed.