Underage alcohol use (AU) remains a significant public health concern in the United States, with particular attention needed for alternative high school (AHS) students. These students often face unique challenges that increase their vulnerability to substance use. A recent study titled "Underage Alcohol Use by Intersectional Identity Among Alternative High School Students" provides valuable insights into the complexities of AU within this group. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing research outcomes and encouraging further exploration.
The Study: Key Findings
The research examined AU trends among a cohort of predominantly Hispanic/Latino AHS students in Southern California. The study focused on intersectional subgroups defined by gender, ethnicity, and generational immigration status. Key findings include:
- Baseline Differences: Students with U.S.-born parents had high AU rates at baseline, while first-generation Hispanic/Latino students started with lower rates that increased over time.
- Gender and Generational Trends: First-generation female Hispanic/Latino students showed one of the lowest probabilities of AU at baseline but one of the highest at the two-year follow-up. A similar trend was observed among first-generation male Hispanic/Latino students.
- Diverse Risks: The study highlights the heterogeneity of AHS students and underscores the need for targeted prevention efforts considering intersectional identities.
Implications for Practitioners
The findings from this study offer several implications for practitioners working with AHS students:
- Tailored Interventions: Prevention strategies should be tailored to address the specific needs of intersectional subgroups. Understanding the unique challenges faced by different groups can lead to more effective interventions.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Practitioners should consider cultural factors and generational immigration status when designing programs. This approach can help in creating culturally sensitive messages that resonate with at-risk youth.
- Longitudinal Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of AU trends over time can help identify emerging patterns and adjust interventions accordingly. Practitioners should focus on long-term engagement with students to track changes in behavior.
The Role of Intersectionality
The concept of intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding AU among AHS students. By examining how gender, ethnicity, and generational immigration intersect, practitioners can gain a more nuanced understanding of risk factors. This approach allows for more comprehensive strategies that address multiple dimensions of identity.
The Need for Further Research
This study opens avenues for further research into underage AU among AHS students. Future investigations could explore larger cohorts to enhance the accuracy of findings and develop more sophisticated models that account for neighborhood and school-level effects. Additionally, exploring how attendance at alternative versus traditional schools influences identity could provide deeper insights.
Conclusion
The study on underage AU among AHS students highlights the importance of considering intersectional identities in prevention efforts. By tailoring interventions to address specific needs and incorporating cultural sensitivity, practitioners can better support at-risk youth. Continued research is essential to refine strategies and ensure they effectively address the diverse challenges faced by these students.
Underage Alcohol Use by Intersectional Identity Among Alternative High School Students
