Adapting Alcohol and Drug Treatment for Black Youth on Community Probation Focusing on Reducing Substance Use and Addressing Racial Discrimination

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how ethnic and racial discrimination ERD affects alcohol and drug use among Black justice-involved youth JIY aged 13 to 17. Black JIY face higher risks of substance use due to discrimination and police brutality, yet they are less likely to receive effective treatment or benefit from existing programs. This study aims to better understand these challenges and culturally adapt a substance use treatment specifically for this population. The study involves individual interviews with Black JIY and focus groups with their guardians and community advocates to gather insights on ERDs impact. Based on this information, the Cannabis Youth Treatment Series CYT, a behavioral intervention targeting alcohol and cannabis use, will be culturally adapted. This adapted intervention will then be piloted with 30 Black JIY to examine its feasibility and acceptability. Participants will engage in the adapted treatment while researchers monitor changes in substance use, mental health symptoms, and experiences of discrimination distress. These assessments occur at baseline, after each study visit, at study completion, and up to six months post-intervention. The main outcomes measured are the interventions feasibility and acceptability, with total participation lasting around three months after the study ends.

Cultural Adaptation of Drug Treatment for DJJ Youth