This study generated two key findings. First, illicit peyote (i.e., nonceremonial) use is uncommon among American Indian adolescents with serious substance use-related problems. Those who reported a history of illicit peyote used the drug experimentally. Second, illicit peyote users did not differ from nonusers on most of the measures tested. In addition, it was found that illicit peyote users were also more likely to report low levels of both self-esteem and social support. The results of the study suggest that among American Indian adolescent youth with serious substance use problems, those with low identification with American Indian culture but some exposure to American Indian traditional practices may be at greatest risk for illicit use of peyote. Few studies have addressed illicit peyote use among American Indians. This study examined the prevalence of illicit peyote use among 89 American Indian adolescents with substance use problems so severe that they were admitted to a residential substance abuse treatment program. It was hypothesized that the adolescents participating in the study would be at great risk for illicit peyote use. The study examined the relationship of illicit peyote use with other substance use disorders, nonsubstance use psychiatric disorders, community mindedness, positive alcohol expectancies, self-esteem, social support, and ethnic identity. References