Hispanic(Latino/a) History

The history of alcohol and other drug use in the countries from which Hispanics or their ancestors originated varies (McQuade, 1989).

Some Hispanics view alcohol and drug problems as moral weaknesses requiring divine intervention (Aguilar et al, 1991; Alvarez & Ruiz, 2001; McQuade, 1989). Fatalism, the idea that health problems are in God's hands, may also influence Hispanics' views of alcohol and drug problems (Antshel, 2002; Comas-Diaz, 1986; Suarez & Ramirez, 1999).

Acculturation or acculturative stress may influence drinking practices or drug use among Hispanics (Caetano, 1994; Marin, 1996; National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2001).