Utilization of Media-Driven Technology for Health Promotion and Risk Reduction among American Indian and Alaska Native Young Adults: An Exploratory Study

Authors

Todd M. Sabato, University of North DakotaFollow

Keywords

American Indian / Alaska Native; Media Technology; Risk Reduction

Disciplines

Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Health and Physical Education | Public Health Education and Promotion

Abstract

Across the developmental spectrum, American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) adolescents and young adults experience considerable behavioral and mental health disparities, including substance abuse, depression, and engagement in sexual behaviors which enhance risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Health-focused interventions utilizing digital and media technology hold significant promise among tribal communities, as they have the capacity to eliminate geography-based barriers. Utilizing a sample of 210 self-identified AI/AN students attending tribal colleges, this study identified the most effective technologies and intervention strategies, as well as health seeking patterns and preferences, which may impact implementation and sustainable use in tribal settings. The use of technology was both diverse and pervasive among AI/AN young adults, mirroring or exceeding patterns of young adults from the broader population. These data suggest that technology-based interventions may effectively deliver information, resources, and behavior change tools to AI/AN young adults, particularly when reflecting their unique worldviews and social contexts.

Recommended Citation

Sabato, Todd M. (2018) "Utilization of Media-Driven Technology for Health Promotion and Risk Reduction among American Indian and Alaska Native Young Adults: An Exploratory Study," Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice: Vol. 12: Iss. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/jhdrp/vol12/iss1/4