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Mailman School
of Public Health
Columbia University
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New York, NY 10032
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Hispanic substance abuse Raymond Sanchez Mayers, Barbara L. Kail and Thomas D. Watts The authors demonstrate the need for an intercultural approach to substance abuse intervention. They contend that only intercultural modes of intervention can be consistently effective in the Hispanic community. ATOD abuse is significantly different among the Hispanic cultures in America, and levels of acculturation and drug use also vary from generation to generation. Poverty, racism, stress, and family discord caused by immigration and acculturation all contribute to Hispanic ATOD abuse in America. Drug-related gang activity, crime, and the spread of AIDS characterize part of the new Hispanic community in America. Useful strategies for prevention and treatment must focus on intercultural understanding. Treatment for Hispanic ATOD abusers must be made culturally sensitive and dignified, as well as accessible. Prevention and treatment should consider: (1) the social stigmas associated with drug use for the Hispanic identity in America; (2) racial identity in low-income communities; and (3) the stress of family life. Family and traditional sex roles, especially, must be acknowledged in addressing Hispanic ATOD abuse in America. The authors describe prevention planning methods useful for service providers in any community.
Charles C. Thomas
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Disclaimer Free To Grow is a national program supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation with direction and technical assistance provided by the Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University. |