Work

Associations Between Ethnic Labels and Substance Use Among Hispanic/Latino Adolescents in Los Angeles

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Self-identification with ethnic-specific labels may indicate successful ethnic identity formation, which could protect against substance use. Alternatively, it might indicate affiliation with oppositional subcultures, a potential risk factor. This study examined longitudinal associations between ethnic labels and substance use among 1,575 Hispanic adolescents in Los Angeles. Adolescents who identified as Cholo or La Raza in 9th grade were at increased risk of past-month substance use in 11th grade. Associations were similar across gender and were not confounded by socioeconomic status, ethnic identity development, acculturation, or language use. Targeted prevention interventions for adolescents who identify with these subcultures may be warranted.

Source: Substance Use & Misuse

DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2013.795172

Authors: Jennifer B Unger, James Thing, Daniel Wood Soto, Lourdes Baezconde-Garbanati

Institution: University of Southern California

Language: English

Topic: Racial and Ethnic Identity Research

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Cancer Institute