Conducting Drug Abuse Research with Minority Populations: Conclusions and Recommendations

SUMMARY

Traditional theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of drug behaviors in minority populations need to be modified to address the special issues involved in studying these populations. Theoretical models need to be expanded to include the effects of cultural, community, and minority status factors. In addition, they need to be multi-disciplinary and dynamic, reflect differences both across and within minority populations, and identify assets as well as risk behaviors. Special methodologies for collecting data from minority populations must continue to be developed, and empirical data need to be collected to identify effective strategies. Training programs are needed which provide researchers and students with tools to create more comprehensive theoretical models, strategies for collecting data from minority populations, and knowledge of the cultures of various ethnic/racial groups.