After-school program to improve cultural identity and prevent substance use in American Indian youth

Native Spirit: Culturally-grounded Substance Use Prevention for Indigenous Adolescents

Not applicable Interventional Arizona State University · NCT06785311

This study tests whether an after-school program can help American Indian teens feel more connected to their culture and reduce substance use.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorArizona State University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Scottsdale, Arizona and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06785311 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to adapt, implement, and evaluate the Native Spirit after-school program within urban American Indian communities. The program focuses on enhancing cultural identity, self-esteem, and resilience among adolescents in grades 7-12 while preventing substance use. Utilizing community-based participatory research methods, the study will involve local community members and tribal partners to ensure cultural relevance and engagement. Participants will undergo a baseline assessment followed by a 10-session intervention designed to increase exposure to local cultural values and activities.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adolescents in grades 7-12 who are members of the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community or the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.

Not a fit: Non-American Indian adolescents will not benefit from this study as they are excluded from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce substance use and improve mental health outcomes among American Indian youth.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with culturally-specific after-school programs in improving health outcomes among American Indian youth, indicating a promising approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion:

* English-speaking
* Currently in grade 7-12 at time of enrollment
* Member of the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) OR member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe (PYT)
* Engaged in after school programs.

Exclusion:

• Non-American Indians will be excluded from statistical analysis

Where this trial is running

Scottsdale, Arizona and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Substance UseSelf EsteemYouth DrinkingPrevention, SuicideAmerican IndianAdolescent HealthPreventionAfter-School Programs
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.