Alcohol and Drug Use and Abuse among Indian-Americans: A Review of Issues and Sources

Abstract

There is much concern that alcohol and drug abuse are among the top problems in the United States generally, and also a “high priority” health and social problem among Indians. For that reason, there have been numerous programs of education, prevention, and treatment directed toward and developed in Indian communities. Nevertheless, many personnel at both national and local levels and in both rural and urban areas lack adequate acquaintance with pertinent conceptual issues and sources on alcohol and drug use and abuse among Indians specifically. The purpose of this article is to help remedy that lack by reviewing the range of literature and presenting an overview of some of the major perspectives which should inform any approach to Indian alcohol and drug use and abuse.