NCJ Number
212356
Journal
Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse Volume: 4 Issue: 2 Dated: 2005 Pages: 115-138
Date Published
2005
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This study explored the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and undesirable behaviors among Haitian youth, such as delinquent behavior and difficulties in school.
Abstract
Haitian immigrants who finally make their way to Miami have faced marginalization in Miami/Dade County due to factors such as their rumored links with disease and superstition and association with juvenile crime. The current study of Haitian youth in Miami/Dade County was undertaken to define the responses of these youth to this hostile social and economic environment. Investigators recruited 292 Haitian youth through direct, street-based contact with informal social networks. Participants completed interviews eliciting sociodemographic information as well as information on trauma experiences and activities involving youth-dominated groups. A subset of participants also completed in-depth interviews and family studies. Results indicated that while the participants had suffered traumatic experiences that might have affected their mental health outcomes, the childhood victimization of the Haitian youth was not significantly associated with PTSD or with delinquent activities, including drug use and the formation of gangs. Future research should focus on youth who demonstrate high resilience to the effect of serious trauma. Tables, references