NCJ Number
129903
Journal
International Journal of the Addictions Volume: 23 Issue: 8 Dated: (1988) Pages: 809-826
Date Published
1988
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Hispanic adolescents are the fastest-growing ethnic age group in the United States and are at high risk for abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. A model is used to explain the etiology of Hispanic adolescent substance use and to discuss possible prevention strategies.
Abstract
The incidence of Hispanic Americans' substance use is estimated from correlative and regional data; collateral evidence suggests the occurrence is even higher among Hispanic youth. Environmental, social milieu, cognitive, and life event stressors experienced by Hispanic youths are linked to their substance use. Particular attention should be paid to school failure and violence. A preventive intervention model aimed at reducing these and other stressors incorporates coping, acculturation, social learning, and support network theories. A recommended research agenda would consist of documenting substance use rates and patterns among Hispanic youth, disaggregating psychological influences on Hispanic adolescents' substance use, and developing and testing culturally sensitive intervention models. 1 figure and 103 references (Author abstract modified)