Cultural adaptation of the Be Under Your Own Influence media campaign for middle-school American Indian youth

Authors: Linda R. Stanley, Kathleen J. Kelly, Randall C. Swaim, Danielle Jackman

Publication Year: 2018

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Journal: Journal of Health Communication

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Mental and Behavioral Health; Social Determinants of Health; Substance Use; Youth

 

Short Abstract: American Indian (AI) adolescents living on reservations report much higher substance use rates compared to other youth yet there are few effective prevention interventions developed for them. This paper presents findings from formative research undertaken to guide adaptation for AI youth of a prevention intervention, Be Under Your Own Influence (BUYOI), previously found to be effective in reducing substance use among middle-school youth.

 

Abstract: American Indian (AI) adolescents living on reservations report much higher substance use rates compared to other youth yet there are few effective prevention interventions developed for them. This paper presents findings from formative research undertaken to guide adaptation for AI youth of a prevention intervention, Be Under Your Own Influence (BUYOI), previously found to be effective in reducing substance use among middle-school youth. We conducted focus groups with 7th graders, the primary target audience, and photovoice with 11th graders, the role models who would help deliver the campaign, to inform surface and deep structure adaptation. Both age groups noted the pervasiveness of substance use on the reservation and indicated that this posed a major challenge to being drug and alcohol free. Students also described aspects of their community that tied to signs of social disorganization. However, these youth have much in common with other youth, including high future aspirations, involvement in activities and hobbies, and influence from family and friends. At the same time, there were important differences in the experiences, environment, and values of these AI youth, including an emphasis on different types of activities, a more collectivist cultural orientation, tribal identity and pride, and the importance of extended families. Note: Urban AI youths were not the primary demographic collaborating on this research. Further cultural adaptation of the program for urban AI/AN youth may be needed.

 

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Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6362830/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article