Emerging adulthood, ages 18-25, is a period of great change and development, during which young adults may experiment with substance use. Previous research has identified that one’s social network during emerging adulthood can impact alcohol and other drug (AOD) use behaviors. However, social network research focused on American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) young adult’s AOD use is scarce. AI/AN individuals experience numerous health disparities including high rates of AOD which highlights the need for further research to develop substance use prevention programs for this population. This study examines the impact of social network characteristics on AI/AN young adults’ alcohol, cannabis, and opioid use and intentions.
The study’s sample consisted of 150 AI/AN young adults age 18 to 25 years old living in urban areas (not on a rancheria or reservation). Participants completed a survey that assessed alcohol, cannabis, and opioid use during the past three months. To assess social networks, respondents were asked to name 15 people they talked to the most over the past three months. They were asked to report their relationship with the person, the person’s age, if they identify as AI/AN, if they participate in cultural/traditional activities, the type of support that person offers them, and that person’s substance use behaviors. Data was analyzed using a bivariate linear regression analysis.
Results of the data analysis showed 25% of individuals in respondents social networks participated in traditional practices and 8% reported engaging in both traditional practices and heavy AOD use. Approximately 26% engaged in heavy AOD but not traditional practices. Participant with networks having higher proportions of heavy AOD use and less traditional practices were more likely to report cannabis use in the past 3 months and greater intentions to use cannabis and drink alcohol in the next 6 months. Participants who reported having a greater portion of their social network engage in traditional practices and no heavy AOD use were less likely to report intentions to use cannabis or drink alcohol.
Takeaway: Among American Indian/Alaskan Native emerging adults, social networks may impact substance use behaviors.