Exploring Culturally Specific Drug Resistance Strategies of Hawaiian Youth in Rural Communities.

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the drug resistance strategies of Hawaiian youth residing in rural communities in Hawai`i. Forty seven youth participated in 14 focus groups which focused on the social and environmental context of drug use for these youth. The findings indicated that there were 47 references to resistance strategies used in drug offer situations. These strategies fell within two different categories: (1) overt/confrontational drug resistance strategies, and (2) non-confrontational drug resistance strategies. These strategies occurred within the community context of relational networks of ascribed and biological family members, and differed in frequency of use by gender. Implications for culturally grounded drug prevention programs for rural Hawaiian youth are discussed.