Approaches to Ethnicity: Clearing Roadblocks in the Study of Ethnicity and Substance Use

A number of indicators of ethnicity commonly used in alcohol/drug use studies are reviewed, including the racial, natal, symbolic and cultural approaches to ethnicity.

Abstract

This paper reviews a number of indicators of ethnicity commonly used in alcohol/drug use studies. These include the racial, natal, symbolic and cultural approaches to ethnicity. The utility and limitations of each of these approaches is scrutinized. Because ethnicity is a multidimensional concept, using only one dimension, as is the case in many alcohol/drug use studies, is inadequate. One of the major weaknesses of studies of ethnicity and substance use is the failure to recognize the presence of subcultural differences within an ethnic group. Implications of the present review for future research in ethnicity and substance use/misuse and for future development of culturally sensitive programs and services are discussed.