Collectivism in Smoking Prevention Programs for Hispanic Preadolescents: Raising the Ante on Cultural Sensitivity

• NCJ Number: 241877
• Journal: Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 21 Issue: 5 Dated: November - December 2012 Pages: 427-439
• Author(s): Ana G. Gonzalez-Blanks; Stella G. Lopez; Raymond T. Garza
• Date Published: November 2012
• Length: 13 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined collectivist influences in preventing smoking among Hispanic youths.

Abstract

The present study examines collectivist influences in preventing smoking among Hispanic youths. Using a pretest/posttest design, sixth-graders received a collectivist or standard curriculum. Both curricula contained knowledge-based facts about smoking. The collectivist condition included an interdependent perspective. Compared to the standard curriculum, students in the collectivist condition reported more desirable behaviors, parental involvement, desirable and accurate perceptions about smoking, teacher approachability, and lower tobacco use. These results were also the case if their collectivist characteristic matched the program orientation. Collectivism should be considered for enhancing the cultural sensitivity and effectiveness of preventive programs for Hispanic preadolescents. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.