Based on Research Conducted at OSLC
How do Latino families who have immigrated to the U.S. adapt to life in this country?
Project Overview
The Adolescent Latino Acculturation Study was a research project designed to learn more about how Latino families who have immigrated to the United States adapt to life in this country. We know that parents usually adapt or “acculturate” to a new culture and language at a much slower rate than their children. This study examined how that difference in acculturation rates affects the relationship between parents and their children, and whether this difference places the children at any higher risk for behaviors such as substance use, gang involvement, and poor performance in school. We recruited 225 Latino families with youngsters in grades 6–10 who were born in Latin America. Each family was involved with the study for three years and took part in a number of interviews, both in person and over the telephone. Data from this study helps us better understand what kinds of programs and policies can most help immigrant families as they make the often-difficult transition from their countries of origin to life in the United States.
Year Project Began: 2005Funder: National Institute on Drug Abuse