Drug Trafficking and Urban African American Youth: Risk Factors for PTSD

Author: Okundaye J.N.

Source: Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, Volume 21, Number 3, June 2004 , pp. 285-302(18)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

This article examines how African American youths (ages 12–17) who are raised in neighborhoods that are centers for illegal drug trade and drug dealing (trafficking, running) cope with violent events such as shooting, stabbings and other intentional injuries. Using qualitative research methods, the study explores urban youths' perceptions of drug trafficking and related activities in their neighborhoods. The study then explores issues of personal encounters with traumatic events related to drug trafficking activities (shootings, stabbings, deaths, other violence) in their community. Finally, the study discusses implications of findings for risk and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) among these youths.

Keywords: Drug Trafficking; Urban; African American; Youth; PTSD

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/B:CASW.0000028456.32329.ea

Affiliations: 1: Social Work Department, University of Maryland Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250; jokund1@gl.umbc.edu, Email: jokund1@gl.umbc.edu

Publication date: 2004-06-01