Cultural Issues in Substance Abuse Treatment

Description:  This study presents some tools to help providers of health services, primary caregivers, medical and other allied health students in the substance abuse treatment area to understand the cultural, social, political, and economic affecting substance abuse among Hispanic Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans/ Pacific Islanders, and American Indians/Alaska Natives. These four racial and ethnic groups not only make up about a quarter of the total population in the United States but also constitute the fastest growing segments of the population.  As members of these groups continue to grow, providers face the task of providing substance treatment to members of these groups more frequently than ever. Thus, the need to understand the sociocultural factors affecting substance abuse patterns among members of racial and ethnic groups is crucial for the provision of adequate treatment. This discussion attempts to shed light on some of those issues.

CE Credits: 10 (NBCC Hours - 10)

CE Broker #:  20-328837

Methods: Pre-test, study guide, posttest and evaluation, internet sources via URLs, Q&A by email.

Content Area: Cultural competency, Addictions, Social and cultural foundations, Applications to practice, Counseling, Special populations, Professional orientation/readiness.

Purpose: The intent of this monograph is to provide a tool to help providers and other substance abuse treatment professionals gain a greater understanding of the cultural, social, political, and economic forces affecting substance abuse treatment for five specific populations.

Target Audience:  Social workers, marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, mental health counselors, nurses, employee assistance professionals, addiction professionals, behavioral health technicians, and other allied professionals.