From the Individual to the Community: Perspectives About Substance Abuse Services

This article argues that substance abuse interventions in distressed African American communities must be culturally tailored and must incorporate a framework targeting changes in both individual behavior and the community. This study employed concept mapping in conjunction with community-based participatory research principles to involve 100 community members, substance users, and service providers to examine the role of alcohol and other drugs in distressed African American communities. Findings reveal the way participants understand the role of drugs and alcohol in their community and their perceptions of substance abuse services. The article describes a collaborative approach to engage the community in addressing substance abuse.