Cultural Influences on Substance Use Among Hispanic Adolescents and Young Adults: Findings From Project RED

H ispanic adolescents represent a growing segment of the U.S. population. In addition to the typical stressors encountered during adolescence, H ispanic adolescents may experience acculturative stress, perceived discrimination, and conflicts with parents about acculturation, which can lead to maladaptive behaviors such as substance use. Personal cultural resources may help H ispanic youth cope with cultural stressors and avoid substance use, but little is known about how such factors affect decisions about substance use. In 2005, my research group began studying a group of H ispanic adolescents in L os A ngeles. The participants completed surveys annually about cultural issues such as acculturation, ethnic identity, and perceived discrimination; family and peer relationships; and use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. We found that H ispanic adolescents' perceptions that they were discriminated against put them at greater risk for substance use, and that H ispanic orientation protected the youth from substance use. The findings can inform the development of culturally relevant prevention interventions for H ispanic adolescents and emerging adults.