The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #69566

Lisa Marie A. Gomez¹, Philip A. May, PhD², and J. Phillip Gossage, PhD². (1) Sociology, University of New Mexico, 1810 Mesa Vista Rd., NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, 505-242-4182, prettiwuman@hotmail.com, (2) Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, The University of New Mexico, 2650 Yale Blvd SE, Suite 100, Albuquerque, NM 87106

The intent of this study is to examine perceptions integral to developing public health policy for the safety of five tribal populations. In general, American Indians in this sample have very conservative opinions about alcohol policy. But within these conservative opinions, the adults of the oldest age category (45-92 years) were significantly less apt to want alcohol more available on the reservation, and showed consistency regarding more strict alcohol-related policies. For example, over 80% of that age group felt that the laws against drinking and driving should be enforced more strictly while 70% of those in the youngest age group (16-24) expressed similar opinions (X2=31.60, 6df, p=0.000). Similarly, it was found that the younger generation did not see the sale of alcohol to minors as a problem (65%) whereas, 75% of the elders did (X2=27.13, 6df, p=0.000). The younger and older generations differed in opinion about accessibly of alcohol as well. The youngest group felt that alcohol was not as easy to obtain while, 85% of the elders felt that accessing alcohol was easy (X2=48.26, 6df, p=0.000). In conclusion, this survey of Plains Indians described a population that was very concerned about alcohol use and abuse across all age groups, with the elders being significantly more conservative.

Learning Objectives:

• This study is a comprehensive analysis of opinions relating to alcohol use, fetal alcohol syndrome, and alcohol-related policies from five American Indian tribal populations in the states. The intent of this presentation is to present and describe data and concepts integral to developing public health policy for the safety of the five tribal populations.

Keywords: Alcohol, American Indians

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.