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Understanding Substance Use Risk and Protective Factors in American Indian and White American Youth: Implications for Practitioners

Understanding Substance Use Risk and Protective Factors in American Indian and White American Youth: Implications for Practitioners

Introduction

Substance use among youth is a critical public health issue that has far-reaching implications for individual and community health. A recent study titled "A comparison of the substance use related risk and protective factor profiles for American Indian and White American youth: a mixed studies review" sheds light on the nuanced differences in substance use risk and protective factors between American Indian and White American youth. This blog explores the findings of this study and discusses how practitioners can leverage these insights to enhance their intervention strategies.

Key Findings from the Study

The study employed a comprehensive review of existing literature to identify 84 factors related to substance use, categorized into 55 risk factors and 29 protective factors, utilizing the Social Ecological Model (SEM). The SEM framework helps in understanding the complex interplay of individual, interpersonal, and community influences on health behaviors.

Unique Risk and Protective Factors

Common Factors

Both American Indian and White American youth shared several risk factors such as stressful life events and perceptions favorable to substance use. Protective factors common to both groups included negative attitudes towards substance use and strong family support.

Implications for Practitioners

Practitioners working with youth populations should consider these unique and shared factors when designing intervention programs. Here are some strategies to consider:

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides valuable insights, there is a need for further research to fill existing gaps, particularly at the institutional, policy, and cultural levels of the SEM. Practitioners are encouraged to collaborate with researchers to develop culturally informed interventions that are responsive to the unique needs of American Indian youth.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinct and shared risk and protective factors for substance use among American Indian and White American youth is crucial for developing effective interventions. By integrating cultural considerations and engaging families and communities, practitioners can create more inclusive and impactful programs.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A comparison of the substance use related risk and protective factor profiles for American Indian and White American youth: a mixed studies review.


Citation: Nadeau, M., Wise, K., Sabbella, R. B., & Olson, D. (2024). A comparison of the substance use related risk and protective factor profiles for American Indian and White American youth: a mixed studies review. Frontiers in Public Health. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1046655
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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