Which setting is most likely for a psychologist to study school-based prevention programs?

The most likely setting for a psychologist to study school-based prevention programs is within social services agencies. These agencies often focus on community welfare, providing programs and resources that aim to address social issues, including those in educational contexts. School-based prevention programs typically seek to promote wellness and mitigate risks among students, making social services a natural fit for conducting research and evaluating their effectiveness.

In this environment, psychologists can collaborate with schools to develop and assess programs that aim to prevent issues such as bullying, substance abuse, and academic failure. They also have access to the necessary resources and data within the school system, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of program outcomes.

Other settings like private practice, clinical settings, and for-profit companies may not have the same direct access to schools or the specific focus on community-driven prevention efforts that are central to the goals of social services agencies. While they may each play a role in mental health and well-being, their focus is often narrower or oriented toward treatment rather than prevention in school environments.