Abstract Text: Methods: A systematic random sample of 998 households of American Indian adults living on Reservations in North Dakota were interviewed in 1997 using a nationally standardized questionnaire. Of the 998 respondents, 54% were female and 46% were male. Using a standard method of diagnosis, an estimated 20% respondents were dependent on alcohol. The latter were subdivided into three age categories (18-40; 41-55; and 56 and over). The male and female dependents in each of the age categories were compared against a set of characteristics. Key characteristics included volume of alcohol use, other drug use, physical and emotional conditions resulting from alcohol use, and physical and social consequences of drinking. A test for proportions was used for categorical variables. For continuous variables, t-tests were used. Results: Statistically significant differences between men and women aged 18-40 years were observed in the following areas: ever used marijuana; ever used cocaine; friends objected to drinking; stopped or arrested for drinking; wanted to quit or cut down on drinking; drinking caused emotional or psychological problems; ever received treatment for drinking; unemployment status; withdrawal symptoms; and number of children under 18 in the household. In the 41-55 category, differences between men and women were observed when Tribal Elders objected to drinking. Conclusion: While male and female showed no differences in many selected characteristics, there were, however, significant differences in some areas 18-40 age category. This presentation will discuss the treatment implications for men and women on the Reservations who are dependent on alcohol.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to better understand the simililarities and differences in the alcohol drinking behavior of men and women on North Dakota American Indian Reservations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.