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Adolescents in Treatment for Alcohol/Other Drug Problems: Profiles Associated With Psychological Attributes and Ethnic Identity

NCJ Number
193619
Journal
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Dated: 2001 Pages: 45-63
Author(s)
W. H. James Ph.D.; Joy Ruiz-Molleston M.D.
Date Published
2001
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This article examines profiles associated with psychological attributes and ethnic identity in adolescents in treatment for alcohol and other drug problems.
Abstract
The study described in this article used existing data from a community-based education and alcohol/other drugs treatment program. It attempted to: (1) measure the prevalence of psychological attributes among adolescents in treatment for alcohol/other drug use; (2) identify characteristics associated with cultural identity, and (3) create psychological profiles which distinguished between alcohol/other drugs adolescents with and without a high or low ethnic identity. The study investigated the psychological attributes of alienation, social nonconformity, discomfort, expression, and defensiveness. The study suggests the need for treatment programs that are sensitive to the range of cultural experiences of ethnic populations, and that address these psychological attributes. The study observes that adolescents with serious psychological problems related to alienation and social nonconformity may be more at risk for alcohol/other drug abuse problems. Tables, references