Moderating Role of Acculturation between Perceived Discrimination and Substance Use among Puerto Rican Adults

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Substance use among older adults remains a growing problem in the United States, particularly in Puerto Rican communities. While perceived discrimination has been identified as a risk factor for health outcomes, it has both direct and indirect associations with substance use. This study investigates the moderating role of acculturation between perceived discrimination and the use of alcohol and cigarettes. Based on the waves from the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, our findings explores the need to examine perceived discrimination as a stressor impacting the health of Puerto Ricans in later adulthood. Policy implications for reducing substance use and directions for future research are discussed.

Authors

• Byung Lee, Central Connecticut State University

• Youngki Woo, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley

• Seokjin Jeong, University of Texas at Arlington

• Luis Falcon, University of Massachusetts Lowell