Pennsylvania Youth Survey

Later in the month of October, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will again be administering the PAYS survey. Developed in collaboration with Pennsylvania Departments of Education, Health and Public Welfare and Liquor Control board, the survey is a scientifically validated tool designed to gather Pennsylvania youths’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviors around alcohol, tobacco, and other drug usage, violence and other problem issues. Additionally, the survey tracks risk factors that can lead to likelihood of delinquent behavior and substance abuse, along with the protective factors that can help buffer young people from risk. Chester County resources fund the PAYS.

Administered biannually since 1989 the survey captures information from students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The information has proved to be an invaluable tool for communities, schools and state agencies in providing prevention resources. Through PAYS school administrators can determine specific issues facing our youth and families and direct programming to promote healthy and positive youth development.

The survey is anonymous, voluntary and confidential. No student level data is reported.The survey takes approximately a class period to accomplish. Data is reported in aggregate by grade in an expansive summary report.

Parents / Guardians desiring their child(ren) not participate in the survey are to contact the middle and/or high school respectively. The link below provides access to view the survey the students will be taking. Thank you in advance for your support of of this important matter.

http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/justice_research/5259/pennsylvania_youth_survey_for_2013/1340339