Loading... Can a Sense of Ethnic Belonging Reduce the Likelihood of Prescription Drug Misuse?

What is it about?

National data indicates that the misuse of prescription drugs is a national concern, particularly on college campuses. Our study examines the relationship between a person's sense of ethnic identity, and the likelihood that he or she will misuse prescription drugs. Our findings indicate that non-Whites with a high sense of ethnic identity and belonging are less likely to misuse prescription drugs than those with low levels of ethnic identity. However, ethnic identity does not have any impact on the likelihood of prescription drug misuse for Whites.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Given the seriousness of our nation's opiate epidemic and the prevalence of prescription drug misuse, it is important for us to research the factors that may contribute to and help reduce this epidemic. The findings in this study may help develop strategies for certain groups (non-White college students particularly) to help reduce the likelihood of prescription drug misuse.