Evidence shows an information gap between existing prevention resources and the specific needs of the growing Hispanic/Latino population in general, and young Latina girls in particular. Given the devastating impact substance abuse has on this population, it is imperative to develop culturally-specific language-appropriate materials. To meet this need, SAMHSA/CSAP developed a two-phase public education campaign. Phase I consisted of innovative communication materials to encourage and strengthen dialogue between Spanish-speaking Hispanic/ Latino parents and their children about the dangers of substance abuse. These include a kit for parents, activity booklet for young children, community organization guidebook, cultural pride poster, and Web display. A significant number of Hispanic/Latina girls use illicit drugs, and rank higher in pregnancy, depression and suicide rates than any racial or ethnic group. Phase II, called °Soy Unica! °Soy Latina!, is a bilingual campaign for Hispanic girls ages 9-14, and their mothers and other caregivers. It is designed to help them enhance their self-esteem, mental health, decision-making and assertiveness skills, and to prevent the harmful consequences of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs. Campaign materials include posters, activity books, and an interactive Web site for girls, as well as a book of advice for mothers. Guided by an advisory committee, materials in both campaigns are based on research results and target audience involvement, including formative research, summative evaluation, rapid needs assessment surveys, readability tests, focus group discussions, and expert reviews. The availability of these popular, free, public domain materials represents a big step towards reducing the critical gap in resources.
See www.health.org/initiatives/hisplatino/background.htm; www.soyunica.org/backgrounder.htm
Learning Objectives: By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: (1) Identify at least 3 critical reasons culturally-appropriate substance abuse materials are needed for the Hispanic/Latino population living in the United States; (2) Describe the steps taken by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to develop culturally-appropriate substance abuse prevention materials for the Hispanic/Latino population; and (3) Identify some of the unique features of the materials developed to meet the needs of this population.
Keywords: Substance Abuse Prevention, Hispanic
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) of the US Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Contract with Federal agency