Examining Racial and Ethnic Differences in Asian Adolescent Drug Use: The contributions of culture, background and lifestyle

Abstract

Although statistics from various surveys differ, it is acknowledged that drug abuse is increasing among young Asian Americans. This increase is particularly noteworthy among those who reside in urban centres, where there is greater exposure to social influences (Lin, 1986). Extensive exposure of Asian adolescents to Western youth drug culture contributes to a higher risk of developing drug problems. The internalizing of Western culture puts young Asians at risk of engaging in delinquent acts that lead to drug arrests, school dropout, and a greater frequency and duration of drug use. In a nine-month tracking study of Asian youth, their drug use and cultural influences were assessed using the Adolescent Substance Battery. It is suggested that the transition to Western culture disrupts the hierarchical family structure, interdependence, and self-identity of young Asian Americans.