The Relation of Race/Ethnic-Matching to the Engagement, Retention, and Treatment
The Relation of Race/Ethnic-Matching to the Engagement, Retention, and Treatment Outcomes of Adolescent Substance Users A thesis submitted to the Graduate School of the University of Cincinnati in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in the Department of Psychology of the College of Arts and Sciences 2011 by Jerren C. Weekes B.S., Oakwood University, 2008 Committee: Ann Kathleen Burlew, Ph.D. (Chair) Farrah Jacquez, Ph.D Bridgette Peteet, Ph.D. i Abstract This study examined the relation of race/ethnic-matching (i.e., matching therapist and client based on self-reported race/ethnicity [REM]) to the treatment outcomes of 471 Hispanic, African American, and White adolescents in substance abuse treatment. Additionally, exploratory analyses were conducted to examine family functioning as a moderator variable between racial/ethnic match and treatment outcomes. Logistic and multiple regression analyses revealed that REM, alone, did not significantly predict the treatment outcomes of the African American and White adolescents. However, REM predicted an increase in the externalizing behaviors (e.g., non-compliance, aggression, hyperactivity) and substance use of Hispanic adolescents 12 months post baseline assessment. Family functioning moderated the relationship between REM and treatment engagement for African American adolescents. As family functioning worsened, African American adolescents who were matched had a higher likelihood of treatment engagement. Implications for substance abuse treatment with ethnic minority adolescents and future race/ethnic-matching research are provided. ii Page Intentionally Left Blank iii Acknowledgements I would like to acknowledge God for providing peace in times of stress, for his enduring love, and for his support.
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