An analysis of sociodemographic and health-related variables related to occurrence and treatment outcome in Mexican American and non-Hispanic white clients diagnosed with alcohol-related disorders

Abstract

This study analyzed sociodemographic and health-related variables related to occurrence and treatment outcome in Mexican American and non-Hispanic white clients diagnosed with alcohol-related disorders. A sample of 551 clients diagnosed with alcohol abuse and dependence in a community treatment center were analyzed in the context of three research questions. Demographic and treatment outcome comparisons were made between two prominent ethnic groups--Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites. A demographic and health risk profile was derived utilizing standard statistical methods. The findings of the study suggest that Mexican Americans differ from non-Hispanic whites in various demographic characteristics and treatment outcome variables. However, considerable cross-cultural complexity exists such that more refined comparisons are essential in order to derive meaningful program design and clinical treatment strategies.