Even though there are many factors related to genetics, mental health and other internal traits that cause substance abuse, culture can also play a critical role. The environment in which a person grows up can have a huge impact on how they cope with stress and the type of behaviors they engage in. Certain aspects of a person’s family, community or cultural sensitivity can influence whether or not someone will become addicted to drugs.
Influence of Cultural Environment on Coping Mechanisms
The way that a community or culture views drug abuse can shape an individual’s attitude toward substances. Culturally distinct groups may view different drugs as illicit and each group may have established codes of behavior in their approach to alcohol and drugs. A person may be introduced to drugs or alcohol by their family or community or taught to stay away from them depending on the culture.
Culture can play a major role in the forming the expectations an individual may have about potential problems that can occur with substance abuse. Some cultures may view drinking as a normal part of life and incorporate into daily meals. Others may encourage drinking only during times of celebrations such as parties and weddings.
Some religious groups may discourage or even forbid alcohol and other drugs among their followers. Some cultures can have very low rates of alcoholism and addictions and others may have very high rates. Native Americans for example tend to have very high rates of alcoholism because of their culture’s experience of being marginalized.
How does culture influence drug abuse?
A culture consists of a group of beliefs, customs, practices, and social behavior shared by all members of the group. A wide range of factors are influenced by this factor, including how individuals cope with stress and what substances are considered socially acceptable. A drug use may be considered normal or even celebrated in some societies, while it may be strongly stigmatized in others. The diversity in cultural attitudes can negatively impact drug abuse rates, treatment options, and recovery outcomes.
Examples of cultural factors influence drug abuse patterns
- United States: Drugs like Ecstasy, cocaine, and cannabis are considered part of social life in certain youth and party subcultures, which contributes to a high abuse rate.
- Russia: Drinking is deeply ingrained in culture, and heavy drinking is normalized, which leads to public health problems.
- Indigenous Communities in South America: Use hallucinogenic substances (including ayahuasca) as part of their spiritual rituals, but external influences can cause younger generations to misuse the substances.
Addressing Cultural Sensitivity in Substance Abuse Prevention
Although there are a number of different factors in determining whether a person becomes addicted to substances or not, culture can have a distinct influence. A person that grows up in an environment where substance abuse is normal will be more likely to abuse drugs. Addressing cultural sensitivity issues can help in understanding the circumstances that led someone to become addicted.
