Viewing Alcohol and Other Drug Use Cross Culturally: A Cultural Framework for Clinical Practice

Abstract

The authors present a conceptual framework for cross-cultural investigation of alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues, including attitudes, values, and behaviors. Elements include cultural views of using alcohol and other drugs, life problems, seeking help, relapse, and recovery. Acculturation, subgroup identity, and migration are critically important variables in the framework. The framework can be used to view a single culture or to compare several and can help clinicians explore clients' earliest exposure to alcohol and other drugs, family and community messages regarding AOD use, and stigma and shame. It can stimulate clinicians' thinking about culturally specific intervention methods and family and community supports for recovery.