Alcohol use, ethnicity, and disability: A comparison of African-American and Caucasian groups

Previous research has consistently reported that alcohol consumption among the general population varies across cultural groups. However, studies investigating risk factors and drinking patterns of African-Americans and Caucasians with disabilities have been limited. The current study explored the factors of alcohol use among African-Americans and Caucasians with disabilities who were seeking rehabilitation services in three mid-western states. Multivariate data analysis revealed that African-Americans were more likely to use alcohol than their Caucasian counterparts when other demographic and disability variables were controlled. Additionally, separate multiple-regression models differentiated patterns between African-Americans and Caucasians in selected variables on alcohol use. Cultural issues and implications for rehabilitation services are discussed.