Jennifer Unger | University of Southern California (original) (raw)

Papers by Jennifer Unger

Research paper thumbnail of E-Cigarettes and Future Cigarette Use

American Academy of Pediatrics eBooks, Aug 17, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of Cultural/interpersonal values and smoking in an ethnically diverse sample of Southern California adolescents

PubMed, 2006

In ethnically diverse school contexts, values from multiple cultures might influence adolescents'... more In ethnically diverse school contexts, values from multiple cultures might influence adolescents' attitudes and behaviors. This study developed scales to assess cultural values among Southern California 6'-grade adolescents (N=2281) and evaluated the associations between values and smoking. The scales assessed values salient in many Hispanic and Asian cultures: Respect for Adults (e.g., filial piety, respeto), Interpersonal Harmony (e.g., saving face, simpatia), and Differentiated Gender Roles (e.g., machismo). In cross-sectional and one-year longitudinal models, Respect for Adults and Interpersonal Harmony were associated with a lower risk of lifetime smoking. The associations were significant even after controlling for demographic characteristics, friends' smoking, and parents' smoking, indicating that values influence adolescents' behavior over and above the effects of modeling and peer influence. Increased understanding of adolescents' values could inform the creation of smoking prevention programs for ethnically diverse adolescents.

Research paper thumbnail of Parental Monitoring Scale

Research paper thumbnail of Longitudinal change in adolescent hope among recent immigrant Latinx adolescents: Links with adolescent and parent cultural stress, family functioning, emotional well‐being, and behavioral health

Child Development, Oct 30, 2021

Adolescent hope can promote the emotional and behavioral well‐being of Latinx families. Positive ... more Adolescent hope can promote the emotional and behavioral well‐being of Latinx families. Positive family functioning may foster adolescent hope, whereas cultural stress may compromise adolescent hope and well‐being. We examined how adolescent hope changed over time, and whether cultural stress and family functioning predicted emotional and behavioral health via adolescent hope intercept and slope. Recent Latinx immigrant adolescents (Mage = 14.51) and parents (Mage = 41.09; N = 302; n = 150 from Los Angeles; n = 152 from Miami) completed measures of above constructs over 3 years (Summer 2010 to Spring 2013). Latent growth curve modeling indicated that adolescent hope increased over time. Higher cultural stress predicted lower initial hope. Higher family functioning predicted higher initial levels of and less steep increase in hope. Increase in hope predicted better emotional and behavioral health. Family functioning predicted better health outcomes by way of hope.

Research paper thumbnail of Insights on electronic cigarette products from reviews on the Reddit forum

Tobacco Prevention and Cessation, Sep 12, 2019

INTRODUCTION E-cigarette devices and their component parts are continuously evolving. Little is k... more INTRODUCTION E-cigarette devices and their component parts are continuously evolving. Little is known about the product design features that may increase the appeal of e-cigarette use, ultimately affecting continuation of use. Product reviews have been described as useful in helping to forecast the popularity of products, and online reviews have become an important channel of product information. This study analyzed e-cigarette product reviews to attempt to arrive at a greater understanding of the features of e-cigarette products that may make them appealing to current users. METHODS Data included 248 product reviews found on a popular e-cigarette-related discussion site of Reddit from 10 April 2017 to 12 November 2018. For this study, we examined the subsections relating to the positive features (PFs) and negative features (NFs) of the product, found in each review. Common themes were identified and coded. RESULTS There were 2929 comments on PFs (average 12 per product), and 1003 on NFs (average 4 per product). Commonly found in the reviews were the ten themes: build quality, color, tip model, battery quality, price, screw quality, power mode performance, coil performance, temperature control performance, and tank quality. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest e-cigarette users expect well-made devices and have developed ways to discriminate between products that perform well from those that do not. Findings suggest that the control of price and design features of e-cigarette products (e.g. color, size, voltage, wattage, coils) warrants consideration for future research and policies addressing e-cigarette use.

Research paper thumbnail of Pandemic-related life changes and adolescent initiation of cannabis and tobacco/nicotine use

Research paper thumbnail of Trust in science and scientists among university students, staff, and faculty of a large, diverse university in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trojan Pandemic Response Initiative

BMC Public Health

Background Mistrust in science and scientists may adversely influence the rate of COVID-19 vaccin... more Background Mistrust in science and scientists may adversely influence the rate of COVID-19 vaccination and undermine public health initiatives to reduce virus transmission. Methods Students, staff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an electronic survey. Surveys included 21-items from the Trust in Science and Scientists Inventory questionnaire. Responses were coded so higher scores indicated a higher trust in science and scientists, A linear regression model including sex, age group, division, race and ethnicity, political affiliation, and history of COVID-19, was used to determine variables significantly associated with trust in science and scientists scores at the p < 0.05 level. Results Participants were mostly female (62.1%), Asian (34.7%) and White (39.5%) and students (70.6%). More than half identified their political affiliation as Democrat (65%). In the final regression model, all races and ethnicities had significantly lower mean trust in science and...

Research paper thumbnail of Examining multilevel influences on parental HPV vaccine hesitancy among multiethnic communities in Los Angeles: a qualitative analysis

BMC Public Health

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in the United States... more Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in the United States, yet understudied among racial/ethnic minority parents. We conducted qualitative research to understand parental HPV vaccine hesitancy and inform community-specific, multilevel approaches to improve HPV vaccination among diverse populations in Los Angeles. Methods We recruited American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN), Hispanic/Latino/a (HL) and Chinese parents of unvaccinated children (9–17 years) from low-HPV vaccine uptake regions in Los Angeles for virtual focus groups (FGs). FGs were conducted in English (2), Mandarin (1), and Spanish (1) between June-August 2021. One English FG was with AI/AN-identifying parents. FGs prompted discussions about vaccine knowledge, sources of information/hesitancy, logistical barriers and interpersonal, healthcare and community interactions regarding HPV vaccination. Guided by the social-ecological model, we identified multilevel emergent themes related ...

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a COVID-19 rapid antigen testing program among student athletes in a public high school district

Evaluation and Program Planning

Research paper thumbnail of Immigration and cultural stressors and their impact on mental health outcomes

Research paper thumbnail of A qualitative analysis of internal medicine residents’ experience with substance use disorder education and training: a pilot study

Journal of Addictive Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Smoking-related psychosocial beliefs and justifications among smokers in India: Findings from Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Surveys

BMC Public Health

Background Previous research in high-income countries (HICs) has shown that smokers reduce their ... more Background Previous research in high-income countries (HICs) has shown that smokers reduce their cognitive dissonance through two types of justifications over time: risk minimizing and functional beliefs. To date, however, the relationship between these justifications and smoking behaviors over time has limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries. This study examines these of justifications and their relation to quitting behavior and intentions among smoking tobacco users in India. Methods The data are from the Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Survey, a prospective cohort of nationally representative sample of tobacco users. The respondents include smoked tobacco (cigarettes and bidi) users (n = 1112) who participated in both Wave 1 (W1; 2010–2011) and Wave 2 (W2; 2012–2013) surveys. Key measures include questions about psychosocial beliefs such as functional beliefs (e.g., smoking calms you down when you are stressed or upset) and risk-minimizing beliefs (e.g., the med...

Research paper thumbnail of Project SUN: Pilot Study of a Culturally Adapted Smoking Cessation Curriculum for American Indian Youth

Journal of Drug Education

American Indian Alaska Native (AIAN) youth have disproportionately higher rates of commercial tob... more American Indian Alaska Native (AIAN) youth have disproportionately higher rates of commercial tobacco product use compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. These rates underscore a need for commercial tobacco product cessation interventions that are culturally informed. This project studied the development, implementation, and some impact data of an adapted version of Project EX, an evidence-based intervention for teen smoking cessation. Implementation challenges resulted in a change from a three-arm to a single-arm trial with 37 AIAN youth who participated in an eight-week curriculum. Intent-to-treat analysis with biochemical validation results indicated that 32% (N = 12/37) of youth quit smoking at the three-month follow-up. Participants reported being satisfied with the program overall and enjoying the culturally adapted activities. This study detailed the program's adaptation and lessons learned during implementation.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination status among staff and faculty of a large, diverse University in Los Angeles: The Trojan Pandemic Response Initiative

Preventive Medicine Reports

Objective This study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample o... more Objective This study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of university staff and faculty prior to university campus reopening for in-person learning in 2021. Methods Staff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an online survey. Survey questions included demographic data (race/ethnicity, age, sex), COVID-19 knowledge and behaviors, employment specific data including division and subdivision (healthcare vs. non-healthcare related division); and self-reported vaccination status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant characteristics associated with the likelihood of being unvaccinated for COVID-19. Results Participants identifying as Asian and Asian American (aOR=1.44, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.96), Hispanic/Latinx (aOR=1.73, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.49) or Multicultural/Other (aOR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.38) had greater odds of being unvaccinated compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. Other characteristics associated with greater likelihood of being unvaccinated included working as a university staff member (vs. faculty) (aOR= 1.69, 95% CI: 1.24. 2.30), decrease in income (aOR=1.34, 95% CI:1.05, 1.71), inability to work remotely (aOR=1.48, 95% CI:1.13, 1.93) and not traveling outside of the Los Angeles area (aOR=1.46, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.83). Political affiliation as an Independent (aOR=1.39, 95% CI:1.04, 1.85) or as something else (aOR= 3.84, 95% CI: 2.72, 5.41) were more likely to be unvaccinated compared to participants identifying as Democrat. Conclusions Several factors associated with racial and social disparities may delay the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to promote vaccination among university staff and faculty.

Research paper thumbnail of Acculturation, Mental Health, and Wellbeing Among Hispanic/Latinx Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology

Purpose: Ethnic disparities in childhood cancer survivor (CCS) mental health have been identified... more Purpose: Ethnic disparities in childhood cancer survivor (CCS) mental health have been identified, although prior survivorship research has focused predominantly on non-Hispanic/Latinx (H/L) white survivors. Methods: This study examined the association of acculturation with depressive symptoms and wellbeing among 582 young adult H/L CCS recruited to a population-based study of CCS in Southern California. Results: In multivariable regression models adjusted for covariates, greater identification with both the Hispanic and Anglo cultures was positively associated with wellbeing (p = 0.007 and p < 0.0001, respectively), and Hispanic cultural identification was associated with fewer depressive symptoms (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Greater understanding of unique protective factors among minority CCS may inform tailored interventions promoting mental health.

Research paper thumbnail of COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff: the USC Trojan Pandemic Research Initiative

Introduction: Although COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality, recent evi... more Introduction: Although COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality, recent evidence suggests that immunity wanes after 6-9 months, and that a third vaccine dose could further reduce COVID-19 transmission and severe illness. However, previous studies have not assessed attitudes about getting booster doses. This study examined COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff in the fall of 2021. Methods: Participants responded to an email invitation and completed electronic surveys. Results: In our sample, 96.2% of respondents indicated willingness to get a COVID-19 booster shot at least once per year. In both bivariate and multivariate analyses higher trust in science was associated with having higher odds of booster willingness. Those who identify as Black, on average, reported trusting science less than other racial/ethnic groups. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate high willingness to receive a COVID-19 booster shot and high...

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence, Co-Occurrence, and Correlates of Substance and Behavioral Addictions Among American Indian Adolescents in California

Journal of Drug Education, 2021

The present study investigated the prevalence and co-occurrence of addictions to tobacco, alcohol... more The present study investigated the prevalence and co-occurrence of addictions to tobacco, alcohol, other drugs, food/eating, the internet, texting, video games, shopping, love, sex, exercise, work, and gambling among American Indian (AI) youth in California. As with previous work in other cultural groups, the most prevalent addictions were love, internet, and exercise, though prevalence and co-occurrence of these addictions were relatively high among AI youth. A negative life events measure was associated with all the addictions, suggesting that life stressors are associated with high rates of multiple types of addictions among AI youth. There is a need for more research to better understand the relations of life stressors with multiple addictions among AI youth as well as how to remediate these behaviors.

Research paper thumbnail of Psychometric evaluation of the perceived context of reception scale among Hispanic and Somali adolescents

Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2020

Objectives: This study validates the psychometric properties and correlates of the perceived cont... more Objectives: This study validates the psychometric properties and correlates of the perceived context of reception (PCOR) scale, a measure of immigrant youth's perceptions of the openness or hostility of their receiving communities, among Hispanic and Somali adolescents. Methods: Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) was conducted to assess the properties of PCOR among a sample of first-and second-generation Hispanic and Somali youth (N = 311) recruited in the Twin Cities metro area of Minnesota. Results: CFA results provided evidence that the negative dimension of PCOR was structurally equivalent across ethnicity and generation and has acceptable internal consistency reliability. Negative perception of the receiving community's attitude toward newcomers was positively correlated with perceived discrimination, depressive symptoms, and anxiety. Conclusion: Results suggest that negative PCOR is crossethnically valid and that perceptions of the receiving community should be considered an important component of immigrant adaptation.

Research paper thumbnail of Sociodemographic differences in young adults’ recall of tobacco and cannabis marketing online and in television/film

Preventive Medicine Reports, 2021

Young adults (YA) who report viewing pro-tobacco and cannabis marketing are at increased risk for... more Young adults (YA) who report viewing pro-tobacco and cannabis marketing are at increased risk for using tobacco and cannabis. However, there is a growing diversity of tobacco and cannabis products on the market, as well as methods for marketing them. Prevalence of, and sociodemographic differences in, YA’s recall of various types of tobacco and cannabis marketing is not well-characterized. Data were from a cohort of YA (mean age: 19.8) from Southern California in 2019. Respondents were asked whether they recalled having seen two types of marketing (online advertisements and portrayals of product use in TV/movies) for 5 tobacco and 3 cannabis products among never-users of tobacco (N = 954) and cannabis (N = 1,046), respectively. Sociodemographic differences in marketing recall were subsequently assessed. Among tobacco-naïve respondents, 31.3% and 49.3% recalled seeing online advertisements and tobacco use in TV/movies, respectively. Among cannabis-naïve respondents, 18.7% and 31.0% recalled seeing online advertisements and cannabis use in TV/movies, respectively. Overall, respondents recalled seeing tobacco and cannabis products on TV/movies at higher rates than seeing online advertisements, with the exception of electronic cigarettes, for which online advertisements were seen at higher rates. Women (vs. men) had higher odds of seeing tobacco (aOR = 1.9) and cannabis use in TV/movies (aOR = 1.4) and cannabis marketing online (aOR = 1.4). LGB (vs. straight) respondents had higher odds of seeing cannabis marketing online (aOR = 1.7). Efforts to regulate exposure to tobacco and cannabis marketing among young women and LGB people merit further consideration.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination status among staff and faculty of a large, diverse University in Los Angeles

ObjectiveThis study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of... more ObjectiveThis study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of university staff and faculty prior to university campus reopening for in-person learning in spring-summer 2021.MethodsStaff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an online survey. Survey questions included demographic data (race/ethnicity, age, sex), COVID-19 knowledge and behaviors, employment specific data including division and subdivision (healthcare vs. non-healthcare related division); and self-reported vaccination status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant characteristics associated with the likelihood of being unvaccinated for COVID-19.ResultsParticipants identifying as Asian and Asian American, Hispanic/Latinx or Multicultural/Other had greater odds of being unvaccinated compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. Other characteristics associated with greater likelihood of being unvaccinated included working a...

Research paper thumbnail of E-Cigarettes and Future Cigarette Use

American Academy of Pediatrics eBooks, Aug 17, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of Cultural/interpersonal values and smoking in an ethnically diverse sample of Southern California adolescents

PubMed, 2006

In ethnically diverse school contexts, values from multiple cultures might influence adolescents'... more In ethnically diverse school contexts, values from multiple cultures might influence adolescents' attitudes and behaviors. This study developed scales to assess cultural values among Southern California 6'-grade adolescents (N=2281) and evaluated the associations between values and smoking. The scales assessed values salient in many Hispanic and Asian cultures: Respect for Adults (e.g., filial piety, respeto), Interpersonal Harmony (e.g., saving face, simpatia), and Differentiated Gender Roles (e.g., machismo). In cross-sectional and one-year longitudinal models, Respect for Adults and Interpersonal Harmony were associated with a lower risk of lifetime smoking. The associations were significant even after controlling for demographic characteristics, friends' smoking, and parents' smoking, indicating that values influence adolescents' behavior over and above the effects of modeling and peer influence. Increased understanding of adolescents' values could inform the creation of smoking prevention programs for ethnically diverse adolescents.

Research paper thumbnail of Parental Monitoring Scale

Research paper thumbnail of Longitudinal change in adolescent hope among recent immigrant Latinx adolescents: Links with adolescent and parent cultural stress, family functioning, emotional well‐being, and behavioral health

Child Development, Oct 30, 2021

Adolescent hope can promote the emotional and behavioral well‐being of Latinx families. Positive ... more Adolescent hope can promote the emotional and behavioral well‐being of Latinx families. Positive family functioning may foster adolescent hope, whereas cultural stress may compromise adolescent hope and well‐being. We examined how adolescent hope changed over time, and whether cultural stress and family functioning predicted emotional and behavioral health via adolescent hope intercept and slope. Recent Latinx immigrant adolescents (Mage = 14.51) and parents (Mage = 41.09; N = 302; n = 150 from Los Angeles; n = 152 from Miami) completed measures of above constructs over 3 years (Summer 2010 to Spring 2013). Latent growth curve modeling indicated that adolescent hope increased over time. Higher cultural stress predicted lower initial hope. Higher family functioning predicted higher initial levels of and less steep increase in hope. Increase in hope predicted better emotional and behavioral health. Family functioning predicted better health outcomes by way of hope.

Research paper thumbnail of Insights on electronic cigarette products from reviews on the Reddit forum

Tobacco Prevention and Cessation, Sep 12, 2019

INTRODUCTION E-cigarette devices and their component parts are continuously evolving. Little is k... more INTRODUCTION E-cigarette devices and their component parts are continuously evolving. Little is known about the product design features that may increase the appeal of e-cigarette use, ultimately affecting continuation of use. Product reviews have been described as useful in helping to forecast the popularity of products, and online reviews have become an important channel of product information. This study analyzed e-cigarette product reviews to attempt to arrive at a greater understanding of the features of e-cigarette products that may make them appealing to current users. METHODS Data included 248 product reviews found on a popular e-cigarette-related discussion site of Reddit from 10 April 2017 to 12 November 2018. For this study, we examined the subsections relating to the positive features (PFs) and negative features (NFs) of the product, found in each review. Common themes were identified and coded. RESULTS There were 2929 comments on PFs (average 12 per product), and 1003 on NFs (average 4 per product). Commonly found in the reviews were the ten themes: build quality, color, tip model, battery quality, price, screw quality, power mode performance, coil performance, temperature control performance, and tank quality. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest e-cigarette users expect well-made devices and have developed ways to discriminate between products that perform well from those that do not. Findings suggest that the control of price and design features of e-cigarette products (e.g. color, size, voltage, wattage, coils) warrants consideration for future research and policies addressing e-cigarette use.

Research paper thumbnail of Pandemic-related life changes and adolescent initiation of cannabis and tobacco/nicotine use

Research paper thumbnail of Trust in science and scientists among university students, staff, and faculty of a large, diverse university in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trojan Pandemic Response Initiative

BMC Public Health

Background Mistrust in science and scientists may adversely influence the rate of COVID-19 vaccin... more Background Mistrust in science and scientists may adversely influence the rate of COVID-19 vaccination and undermine public health initiatives to reduce virus transmission. Methods Students, staff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an electronic survey. Surveys included 21-items from the Trust in Science and Scientists Inventory questionnaire. Responses were coded so higher scores indicated a higher trust in science and scientists, A linear regression model including sex, age group, division, race and ethnicity, political affiliation, and history of COVID-19, was used to determine variables significantly associated with trust in science and scientists scores at the p < 0.05 level. Results Participants were mostly female (62.1%), Asian (34.7%) and White (39.5%) and students (70.6%). More than half identified their political affiliation as Democrat (65%). In the final regression model, all races and ethnicities had significantly lower mean trust in science and...

Research paper thumbnail of Examining multilevel influences on parental HPV vaccine hesitancy among multiethnic communities in Los Angeles: a qualitative analysis

BMC Public Health

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in the United States... more Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in the United States, yet understudied among racial/ethnic minority parents. We conducted qualitative research to understand parental HPV vaccine hesitancy and inform community-specific, multilevel approaches to improve HPV vaccination among diverse populations in Los Angeles. Methods We recruited American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN), Hispanic/Latino/a (HL) and Chinese parents of unvaccinated children (9–17 years) from low-HPV vaccine uptake regions in Los Angeles for virtual focus groups (FGs). FGs were conducted in English (2), Mandarin (1), and Spanish (1) between June-August 2021. One English FG was with AI/AN-identifying parents. FGs prompted discussions about vaccine knowledge, sources of information/hesitancy, logistical barriers and interpersonal, healthcare and community interactions regarding HPV vaccination. Guided by the social-ecological model, we identified multilevel emergent themes related ...

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a COVID-19 rapid antigen testing program among student athletes in a public high school district

Evaluation and Program Planning

Research paper thumbnail of Immigration and cultural stressors and their impact on mental health outcomes

Research paper thumbnail of A qualitative analysis of internal medicine residents’ experience with substance use disorder education and training: a pilot study

Journal of Addictive Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Smoking-related psychosocial beliefs and justifications among smokers in India: Findings from Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Surveys

BMC Public Health

Background Previous research in high-income countries (HICs) has shown that smokers reduce their ... more Background Previous research in high-income countries (HICs) has shown that smokers reduce their cognitive dissonance through two types of justifications over time: risk minimizing and functional beliefs. To date, however, the relationship between these justifications and smoking behaviors over time has limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries. This study examines these of justifications and their relation to quitting behavior and intentions among smoking tobacco users in India. Methods The data are from the Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Survey, a prospective cohort of nationally representative sample of tobacco users. The respondents include smoked tobacco (cigarettes and bidi) users (n = 1112) who participated in both Wave 1 (W1; 2010–2011) and Wave 2 (W2; 2012–2013) surveys. Key measures include questions about psychosocial beliefs such as functional beliefs (e.g., smoking calms you down when you are stressed or upset) and risk-minimizing beliefs (e.g., the med...

Research paper thumbnail of Project SUN: Pilot Study of a Culturally Adapted Smoking Cessation Curriculum for American Indian Youth

Journal of Drug Education

American Indian Alaska Native (AIAN) youth have disproportionately higher rates of commercial tob... more American Indian Alaska Native (AIAN) youth have disproportionately higher rates of commercial tobacco product use compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. These rates underscore a need for commercial tobacco product cessation interventions that are culturally informed. This project studied the development, implementation, and some impact data of an adapted version of Project EX, an evidence-based intervention for teen smoking cessation. Implementation challenges resulted in a change from a three-arm to a single-arm trial with 37 AIAN youth who participated in an eight-week curriculum. Intent-to-treat analysis with biochemical validation results indicated that 32% (N = 12/37) of youth quit smoking at the three-month follow-up. Participants reported being satisfied with the program overall and enjoying the culturally adapted activities. This study detailed the program's adaptation and lessons learned during implementation.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination status among staff and faculty of a large, diverse University in Los Angeles: The Trojan Pandemic Response Initiative

Preventive Medicine Reports

Objective This study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample o... more Objective This study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of university staff and faculty prior to university campus reopening for in-person learning in 2021. Methods Staff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an online survey. Survey questions included demographic data (race/ethnicity, age, sex), COVID-19 knowledge and behaviors, employment specific data including division and subdivision (healthcare vs. non-healthcare related division); and self-reported vaccination status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant characteristics associated with the likelihood of being unvaccinated for COVID-19. Results Participants identifying as Asian and Asian American (aOR=1.44, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.96), Hispanic/Latinx (aOR=1.73, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.49) or Multicultural/Other (aOR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.38) had greater odds of being unvaccinated compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. Other characteristics associated with greater likelihood of being unvaccinated included working as a university staff member (vs. faculty) (aOR= 1.69, 95% CI: 1.24. 2.30), decrease in income (aOR=1.34, 95% CI:1.05, 1.71), inability to work remotely (aOR=1.48, 95% CI:1.13, 1.93) and not traveling outside of the Los Angeles area (aOR=1.46, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.83). Political affiliation as an Independent (aOR=1.39, 95% CI:1.04, 1.85) or as something else (aOR= 3.84, 95% CI: 2.72, 5.41) were more likely to be unvaccinated compared to participants identifying as Democrat. Conclusions Several factors associated with racial and social disparities may delay the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to promote vaccination among university staff and faculty.

Research paper thumbnail of Acculturation, Mental Health, and Wellbeing Among Hispanic/Latinx Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology

Purpose: Ethnic disparities in childhood cancer survivor (CCS) mental health have been identified... more Purpose: Ethnic disparities in childhood cancer survivor (CCS) mental health have been identified, although prior survivorship research has focused predominantly on non-Hispanic/Latinx (H/L) white survivors. Methods: This study examined the association of acculturation with depressive symptoms and wellbeing among 582 young adult H/L CCS recruited to a population-based study of CCS in Southern California. Results: In multivariable regression models adjusted for covariates, greater identification with both the Hispanic and Anglo cultures was positively associated with wellbeing (p = 0.007 and p < 0.0001, respectively), and Hispanic cultural identification was associated with fewer depressive symptoms (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Greater understanding of unique protective factors among minority CCS may inform tailored interventions promoting mental health.

Research paper thumbnail of COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff: the USC Trojan Pandemic Research Initiative

Introduction: Although COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality, recent evi... more Introduction: Although COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce morbidity and mortality, recent evidence suggests that immunity wanes after 6-9 months, and that a third vaccine dose could further reduce COVID-19 transmission and severe illness. However, previous studies have not assessed attitudes about getting booster doses. This study examined COVID-19 booster vaccine attitudes and behaviors among university students and staff in the fall of 2021. Methods: Participants responded to an email invitation and completed electronic surveys. Results: In our sample, 96.2% of respondents indicated willingness to get a COVID-19 booster shot at least once per year. In both bivariate and multivariate analyses higher trust in science was associated with having higher odds of booster willingness. Those who identify as Black, on average, reported trusting science less than other racial/ethnic groups. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate high willingness to receive a COVID-19 booster shot and high...

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence, Co-Occurrence, and Correlates of Substance and Behavioral Addictions Among American Indian Adolescents in California

Journal of Drug Education, 2021

The present study investigated the prevalence and co-occurrence of addictions to tobacco, alcohol... more The present study investigated the prevalence and co-occurrence of addictions to tobacco, alcohol, other drugs, food/eating, the internet, texting, video games, shopping, love, sex, exercise, work, and gambling among American Indian (AI) youth in California. As with previous work in other cultural groups, the most prevalent addictions were love, internet, and exercise, though prevalence and co-occurrence of these addictions were relatively high among AI youth. A negative life events measure was associated with all the addictions, suggesting that life stressors are associated with high rates of multiple types of addictions among AI youth. There is a need for more research to better understand the relations of life stressors with multiple addictions among AI youth as well as how to remediate these behaviors.

Research paper thumbnail of Psychometric evaluation of the perceived context of reception scale among Hispanic and Somali adolescents

Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2020

Objectives: This study validates the psychometric properties and correlates of the perceived cont... more Objectives: This study validates the psychometric properties and correlates of the perceived context of reception (PCOR) scale, a measure of immigrant youth's perceptions of the openness or hostility of their receiving communities, among Hispanic and Somali adolescents. Methods: Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) was conducted to assess the properties of PCOR among a sample of first-and second-generation Hispanic and Somali youth (N = 311) recruited in the Twin Cities metro area of Minnesota. Results: CFA results provided evidence that the negative dimension of PCOR was structurally equivalent across ethnicity and generation and has acceptable internal consistency reliability. Negative perception of the receiving community's attitude toward newcomers was positively correlated with perceived discrimination, depressive symptoms, and anxiety. Conclusion: Results suggest that negative PCOR is crossethnically valid and that perceptions of the receiving community should be considered an important component of immigrant adaptation.

Research paper thumbnail of Sociodemographic differences in young adults’ recall of tobacco and cannabis marketing online and in television/film

Preventive Medicine Reports, 2021

Young adults (YA) who report viewing pro-tobacco and cannabis marketing are at increased risk for... more Young adults (YA) who report viewing pro-tobacco and cannabis marketing are at increased risk for using tobacco and cannabis. However, there is a growing diversity of tobacco and cannabis products on the market, as well as methods for marketing them. Prevalence of, and sociodemographic differences in, YA’s recall of various types of tobacco and cannabis marketing is not well-characterized. Data were from a cohort of YA (mean age: 19.8) from Southern California in 2019. Respondents were asked whether they recalled having seen two types of marketing (online advertisements and portrayals of product use in TV/movies) for 5 tobacco and 3 cannabis products among never-users of tobacco (N = 954) and cannabis (N = 1,046), respectively. Sociodemographic differences in marketing recall were subsequently assessed. Among tobacco-naïve respondents, 31.3% and 49.3% recalled seeing online advertisements and tobacco use in TV/movies, respectively. Among cannabis-naïve respondents, 18.7% and 31.0% recalled seeing online advertisements and cannabis use in TV/movies, respectively. Overall, respondents recalled seeing tobacco and cannabis products on TV/movies at higher rates than seeing online advertisements, with the exception of electronic cigarettes, for which online advertisements were seen at higher rates. Women (vs. men) had higher odds of seeing tobacco (aOR = 1.9) and cannabis use in TV/movies (aOR = 1.4) and cannabis marketing online (aOR = 1.4). LGB (vs. straight) respondents had higher odds of seeing cannabis marketing online (aOR = 1.7). Efforts to regulate exposure to tobacco and cannabis marketing among young women and LGB people merit further consideration.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics associated with COVID-19 vaccination status among staff and faculty of a large, diverse University in Los Angeles

ObjectiveThis study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of... more ObjectiveThis study examined characteristics associated with being unvaccinated among a sample of university staff and faculty prior to university campus reopening for in-person learning in spring-summer 2021.MethodsStaff and faculty responded to an email invitation to complete an online survey. Survey questions included demographic data (race/ethnicity, age, sex), COVID-19 knowledge and behaviors, employment specific data including division and subdivision (healthcare vs. non-healthcare related division); and self-reported vaccination status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine significant characteristics associated with the likelihood of being unvaccinated for COVID-19.ResultsParticipants identifying as Asian and Asian American, Hispanic/Latinx or Multicultural/Other had greater odds of being unvaccinated compared to Non-Hispanic White participants. Other characteristics associated with greater likelihood of being unvaccinated included working a...