American Indian Culture and Research Journal

INTRODUCTION The use and abuse of alcohol and drugs among elementary and high school students are complex phenomena, and race, sex, culture, and economic factors are all interrelated in the development of alcohol and drug use patterns. It is well known that a major health problem for American Indians is alcohol abuse and that prevention of substance abuse is an important health consideration for increasing life expectancy. Such prevention efforts must begin early; often school health curricula include placement of alcohol/drug health teaching towards that end. Is a curriculum effort aimed only at health practices a sufficient target to prevent substance abuse? This article will review the results of survey data gathered from a stratified random sample of 2,234 students, grades 6-12, to review the differences in the social network of American Indian and non-Indian students with regard to alcohol use. The extent to which differences between student group exists will determine the effectiveness of any one classroom prevention program designed by school educators for the student population.