Lilian G Perez, Wendy M Troxel, Joan S Tucker, Michael S Dunbar, Anthony Rodriguez, David J Klein, Elizabeth J D'Amico
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background and objectives: Limited research has examined how discrimination in young adulthood relates to substance use. We examined how multiple and specific types (e.g., race-based) of experiences of unfair treatment are related to problematic alcohol and cannabis use.
Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from a diverse cohort of young adults (mean age 24.7) predominantly residing in southern California (n = 2303) to examine associations of multiple (count) and specific experiences (race-, sexual orientation-, gender-based) of perceived everyday discrimination with self-reported alcohol and cannabis use outcomes (consequences, use disorders, and solitary use). We also tested interactions between the three specific discrimination experiences and sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., race-based discrimination × race/ethnicity).
Results: In this diverse sample (e.g., 47% Latinx/o and 22% Asian; 22% sexual/gender diverse; 56% female) of young adults, about 46% reported up to four different discrimination experiences and 27% reported race-, 26% gender-, and 5% sexual orientation-based discrimination. Race- and gender-based discrimination and experiencing more types of discrimination were associated with worse cannabis use outcomes. Race-based discrimination was associated with fewer alcohol consequences and lower Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores. Associations with sexual orientation-based discrimination and the interactions were not significant.
Discussion and conclusions: Findings build on limited research on associations of discrimination with cannabis use in young adults. More work is needed to understand the mechanisms by which discrimination influences drinking behaviors.
Scientific significance: This study advances the field by examining the unique contributions of specific and multiple types of discrimination experiences in young adulthood, a critical developmental period in which substance use peaks.
期刊介绍:
The American Journal on Addictions is the official journal of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry. The Academy encourages research on the etiology, prevention, identification, and treatment of substance abuse; thus, the journal provides a forum for the dissemination of information in the extensive field of addiction. Each issue of this publication covers a wide variety of topics ranging from codependence to genetics, epidemiology to dual diagnostics, etiology to neuroscience, and much more. Features of the journal, all written by experts in the field, include special overview articles, clinical or basic research papers, clinical updates, and book reviews within the area of addictions.