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Indian youth and inhalants: an update
1Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523.
NIDA Research Monograph
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Indian youth face unique risks for inhalant abuse due to environmental stressors. Early prevention is crucial for the 4% of senior high school students seriously involved with inhalants.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Psychology
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Disadvantaged and stressful environments may increase inhalant use among Indian youth.
- Inhalants are accessible and inexpensive, posing a risk even to younger children.
- Perceptions of widespread inhalant abuse among all Indian youth should be avoided.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the prevalence and patterns of inhalant use among Indian youth.
- To identify risk factors and age-related trends in inhalant abuse.
- To inform targeted prevention strategies for vulnerable populations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of existing data on inhalant use patterns in Indian youth.
- Examination of environmental and developmental factors associated with substance use.
- Age-specific prevalence rates for inhalant use were assessed.
Main Results:
- Approximately 4% of Indian youth in their senior year show significant inhalant use.
- Inhalant use initiation often occurs at a young age, with predisposing factors present by 4th-5th grade.
- School dropouts represent a population at higher risk for chronic inhalant involvement.
Conclusions:
- While not all Indian youth are affected, a significant minority requires targeted intervention.
- Early-onset inhalant use necessitates prevention programs beginning in elementary school.
- Addressing environmental stressors and providing early support can mitigate inhalant abuse among vulnerable youth.