College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Term of Award

Summer 2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Public Health (Dr.P.H.)

Document Type and Release Option

Dissertation (open access)

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Department

Department of Health Policy and Community Health

Committee Chair

Tilicia Mayo-Gamble

Committee Member 1

H.Jui Tung

Committee Member 2

Kristina Harbaugh

Abstract

Substance use among refugee populations is an emerging public health concern shaped/influenced by cultural, social, and structural factors associated with resettlement. This qualitative study explored providers’ perspectives on substance use behaviors among refugees in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Using Health Behavior Theory with acculturation as a contextual construct, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 providers working with refugee-serving organizations. Data collected through the interviews was analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo. The findings indicate that substance use is being influenced by peer exposure, occupational stress, and the increased availability of substances in the United States. Providers identified cultural stigma surrounding mental health, limited awareness of services, language barriers, and healthcare navigation challenges as key barriers to prevention and treatment.      Acculturative stress emerged as a cross-cutting factor affecting both vulnerability and adaptation. Providers also highlighted community networks, cultural orientation programs, and collaborative partnerships as important facilitators for prevention and support. These findings emphasize the need for culturally responsive and community-based approaches to substance use prevention among refugee populations in the United States.

Research Data and Supplementary Material

Yes

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