How ySTART technology works
The handheld ySTART devices are programmed, stored and charged in a multi-unit docking station (shown), which is connected to a personal computer via USB cable. The instructor makes all programming choices using ySTART Program Control Center software, and sends that information to the devices for group activities and individual take-home simulations.
Then, after the two-day simulation, data can be downloaded from the devices at the click of a mouse, and personalized performance reports can be printed from your desktop.
About the PreventPak The electronic ySTART device, when inserted into the specially-designed Pak sleeve, becomes the PreventPak. It looks remarkably like a real pack of cigarettes.
The voice of an addicted friend in the PreventPak interrupts the participant’s life and makes an offer to join them in a “smoke.”
The participant must turn down the offer with a firm “NO,” speaking into the PreventPak like a walkie-talkie.
Peer voices in the PreventPak challenge the refusal by saying “Why not?” or “Come on! Why not?”.
The youth must then state one of their personal reasons for refusing a cigarette. Example: “My friends don’t hang out with smokers.”
The PreventPak also speaks informational phrases and tobacco statistics that reinforce the lessons learned from the curriculum. Example: “Ninety percent of tobacco users who try to quit on their own
resume smoking within a week.”
These events continue randomly for approximately four to eight minutes.
Upon completion of the event, the Prevent Pak offers a congratulatory statement. Example: “Your lungs thank you.”
Tamperproof wristbands embedded with computer chips ensure that only the assigned participant interacts with the PreventPak, holding them accountable for the entire simulation and its results.
The realistic stimulus of the PreventPak, used in the context of a peer pressure experience, helps young people practice their refusal skills. This repetition and reinforcement of lessons learned will help them in those critical, real-life moments when they need to say “no” and refuse a risky behavior.
Learning why and how to say “no” to just one cigarette could make all the difference for the rest of a person’s life. ySTART? When people don’t try a cigarette, they never have to try to quit!
The electronic ySTART device, when inserted into the specially-designed Pak sleeve, becomes the PreventPak. It looks remarkably like a real pack of cigarettes.