The influence of self-efficacy on alcohol use among American Indians

The influence of self-efficacy (general and substance use) on alcohol use among 114 American Indian and Native Alaskan adults was examined. Analysis of variance was performed to assess differences between alcohol use groups (nonuse, low use, and medium-high use). Low general self-efficacy (GSE) was associated with higher alcohol use. High substance use self-efficacy (SSE) was associated with higher alcohol use. Moreover, low GSE was associated with higher SSE. Results indicate that alcohol use may be in response to feelings of powerlessness within one's life and may be sustained by perceived feelings of control over use. The study suggests that the concept of self-efficacy appears to relate to empowerment issues and, as such, would have important applications for use with minority individuals.