Cultural identity of methamphetamine-using women in the U.S./Mexico border

Objectives: Since the passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement the U.S./Mexico border has undergone a significant socio-demographic transformation with vast repercussions on both sides of the border. With economic integration, similar public health challenges appear to be affecting a growing number of border residents. The present study seeks to explore cultural correlates of methamphetamine use (a common bi-national public health problem) in a cross-national sample of individuals admitted to drug treatment facilities in San Diego and Tijuana.

Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of methamphetamine use, sexual risk behavior and cultural identity of persons in drug treatment. Standardized risk assessment survey and psychometric assessment of cultural identity were administered to 55 and 70 women in San Diego and Tijuana, respectively.

Results: This presentation will discuss differences and similarities in perception of cultural identity in this gender-specific binational sample. Cultural identity domains include transborder residency, language preference, family ties on each side of the border, and involvement in culture-centered civic activities.

Discussion: Individuals living in societies undergoing rapid demographic change often face unique stressors associated with a greater risk for substance abuse. Massive immigration, bi-national transient life and changing cultural identity as a result of economic integration are no longer only impacting geographically adjacent small border communities. The population of the entire U.S./Mexico border is now the fastest growing segment of both the U.S. and Mexico. Understanding unique cultural factors along the border may contribute to devising successful prevention strategies for common public health problems, including substance abuse.