Perceptions, barriers, and coping preferences towards quitting among ethnic minority young adults with alcohol use disorder : a phenomenological study

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) significantly impacts the lives of young adults from ethnic minority groups. Understanding their experiences with quitting is essential for developing culturally specific interventions. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perceptions, barriers, and coping strategies related to quitting among young ethnic minority adults with AUD. Method: A descriptive phenomenology study was conducted. The sample size of 22 was determined by achieving data saturation, the point at which no additional themes were identified in the analysis. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. Results: A total of 22 participants were interviewed. Themes related to perceptions included: (1) alcohol use is normal; (2) quitting is good for health but difficult, and (3) Quitting is nice but not now. The study also identified four barriers including separation from family, withdrawal symptoms, peer influences, and challenges arising from acculturation. Coping preferences highlighted in the study included distraction, exercise, counseling, and reuniting with family. Conclusion: The findings underscore the complex interplay of cultural, social, and personal factors in the quitting process and emphasize the need for culturally tailored interventions. Mental health nurses should pay special attention to ethically marginalized and discriminated populations. These findings can also guide nurses in considering the cultural context, barriers, and perceptions of ethnic minorities in quitting, thereby enhancing culturally competent care.