Substance use patterns and problem behavior among immigrant and native-born juvenile offenders in Israel

The use of licit and illicit substances was examined in relation to the personal and social attributes of juvenile offenders in Israel, 256 native-born and 110 from the former Soviet Union. The findings of this prospective study show that immigrant youth initiate substance use at a younger age; use alcohol more often; have more alcohol-related problems; and, are more inclined to regard their use of cigarettes, alcohol and illegal drugs as an aid to coping with stress. Results show that these significant differences may be attributed to familial and economic status factors common to immigrant juvenile offenders. Discussion is given to immigrant juvenile offenders, the provision of culturally sensitive services; as well as the complexities associated with research of this nature.