Leslie Iversen
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198530909
- eISBN:
- 9780191689802
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198530909.003.0005
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience
A United Nations report (United Nations 2003) estimated a worldwide total of 34 million people who regularly abuse amphetamine-like stimulants and 8 ...
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A United Nations report (United Nations 2003) estimated a worldwide total of 34 million people who regularly abuse amphetamine-like stimulants and 8 million who use ecstasy. This exceeds the number of heroin and cocaine abusers combined. D-Amphetamine and D-methamphetamine are among the most widely used of all illicit drugs, ranking second in popularity only to cannabis in many countries. It is now generally recognized that amphetamines are drugs of addiction. This chapter reviews the evidence for this and explores the underlying brain mechanisms. It also reviews the social history of amphetamine abuse in various parts of the world.Less
A United Nations report (United Nations 2003) estimated a worldwide total of 34 million people who regularly abuse amphetamine-like stimulants and 8 million who use ecstasy. This exceeds the number of heroin and cocaine abusers combined. D-Amphetamine and D-methamphetamine are among the most widely used of all illicit drugs, ranking second in popularity only to cannabis in many countries. It is now generally recognized that amphetamines are drugs of addiction. This chapter reviews the evidence for this and explores the underlying brain mechanisms. It also reviews the social history of amphetamine abuse in various parts of the world.
Mitch Earleywine
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195138931
- eISBN:
- 9780199893270
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195138931.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates ...
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Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates that Americans smoke five million pounds of marijuana each year; and yet marijuana remains largely misunderstood by both its advocates and its detractors. To some, marijuana is an insidious “stepping-stone” drug, enticing the inexperienced, and paving the way to the inevitable abuse of harder drugs. To others, medical marijuana is an organic means of easing the discomfort or stimulating the appetite of the gravely ill. Others still view marijuana, like alcohol, as a largely harmless indulgence, dangerous only when used immoderately. All sides of the debate have appropriated the scientific evidence on marijuana in order to satisfy their claims. What then are we to make of these conflicting portrayals of a drug with historical origins dating back to 8,000 bc? This book examines the biological, psychological, and societal impact of this controversial substance. What are the effects, for mind and body, of long-term use? Are smokers of marijuana more likely than non-users to abuse cocaine and heroine? What effect has the increasing potency of marijuana in recent years had on users and on use? Does our current legal policy toward marijuana make sense?Less
Marijuana is the world's most popular illicit drug, with hundreds of millions of regular users worldwide. One in three Americans has smoked pot at least once. The Drug Enforcement Agency estimates that Americans smoke five million pounds of marijuana each year; and yet marijuana remains largely misunderstood by both its advocates and its detractors. To some, marijuana is an insidious “stepping-stone” drug, enticing the inexperienced, and paving the way to the inevitable abuse of harder drugs. To others, medical marijuana is an organic means of easing the discomfort or stimulating the appetite of the gravely ill. Others still view marijuana, like alcohol, as a largely harmless indulgence, dangerous only when used immoderately. All sides of the debate have appropriated the scientific evidence on marijuana in order to satisfy their claims. What then are we to make of these conflicting portrayals of a drug with historical origins dating back to 8,000 bc? This book examines the biological, psychological, and societal impact of this controversial substance. What are the effects, for mind and body, of long-term use? Are smokers of marijuana more likely than non-users to abuse cocaine and heroine? What effect has the increasing potency of marijuana in recent years had on users and on use? Does our current legal policy toward marijuana make sense?
Mónica Serrano (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- June 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780804781589
- eISBN:
- 9780804784474
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Stanford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.11126/stanford/9780804781589.003.0006
- Subject:
- History, Latin American History
For many years, Mexico has had to deal with an illicit drug economy and the extreme violence associated with it. The biggest changes in the country's drug trade occurred in the early 1980s, when ...
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For many years, Mexico has had to deal with an illicit drug economy and the extreme violence associated with it. The biggest changes in the country's drug trade occurred in the early 1980s, when cocaine flows from the Caribbean were rerouted toward Mexico. As a result, the value and thus the corrupting power of the market for illicit drugs radically increased. The history of drug trafficking in Mexico can be divided into three main periods: the emergence of a local illicit drug economy, followed by the emergence of a centrally regulated illicit market and the eventual transition to a privatized and increasingly violent drug economy. This chapter explores the emergence and evolution of the illicit drug market in Mexico, focusing on the factors that change the relations underlying illicit markets. It then looks at some of the main arguments on how illicit drug markets give rise to violence before concluding with a discussion on the dynamics of violence in an effort to highlight the dilemmas currently faced by Mexican authorities.Less
For many years, Mexico has had to deal with an illicit drug economy and the extreme violence associated with it. The biggest changes in the country's drug trade occurred in the early 1980s, when cocaine flows from the Caribbean were rerouted toward Mexico. As a result, the value and thus the corrupting power of the market for illicit drugs radically increased. The history of drug trafficking in Mexico can be divided into three main periods: the emergence of a local illicit drug economy, followed by the emergence of a centrally regulated illicit market and the eventual transition to a privatized and increasingly violent drug economy. This chapter explores the emergence and evolution of the illicit drug market in Mexico, focusing on the factors that change the relations underlying illicit markets. It then looks at some of the main arguments on how illicit drug markets give rise to violence before concluding with a discussion on the dynamics of violence in an effort to highlight the dilemmas currently faced by Mexican authorities.
Mitch Earleywine (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195165319
- eISBN:
- 9780199894055
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195165319.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Psychopharmacology
At least one third of Americans have used an illicit drug at least once. Drugs attract considerable attention in science, legislation, and the media. Nevertheless, people develop their attitudes ...
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At least one third of Americans have used an illicit drug at least once. Drugs attract considerable attention in science, legislation, and the media. Nevertheless, people develop their attitudes about drugs and drug users based on limited information, government policies are formed without a complete picture of the intoxication experience, and researchers often find themselves divided into camps based on the drug they study most often, limiting their ability to benefit from important work done on other drugs. A thorough and accessible review of the subjective effects of drugs and the dominant theories behind these effects will help inform readers about the experience of intoxication and help researchers learn from studies in other disciplines. This book will provide a clear sense of the theories and techniques behind the investigations of intoxication and how subjective experiences relate to addictive potential, which should help people make educated decisions about drug use, help researchers identify ideal ways to assess a drug's subjective effects, and help clinicians understand their substance-abusing clients better by providing insight into the intoxication that they seek.Less
At least one third of Americans have used an illicit drug at least once. Drugs attract considerable attention in science, legislation, and the media. Nevertheless, people develop their attitudes about drugs and drug users based on limited information, government policies are formed without a complete picture of the intoxication experience, and researchers often find themselves divided into camps based on the drug they study most often, limiting their ability to benefit from important work done on other drugs. A thorough and accessible review of the subjective effects of drugs and the dominant theories behind these effects will help inform readers about the experience of intoxication and help researchers learn from studies in other disciplines. This book will provide a clear sense of the theories and techniques behind the investigations of intoxication and how subjective experiences relate to addictive potential, which should help people make educated decisions about drug use, help researchers identify ideal ways to assess a drug's subjective effects, and help clinicians understand their substance-abusing clients better by providing insight into the intoxication that they seek.
David F. Musto and Pamela Korsmeyer
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300090369
- eISBN:
- 9780300137842
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300090369.003.0004
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
This chapter rounds up the discussion of Richard M. Nixon's role in illicit drug use in the United States. It can be noted that Nixon was re-elected partly due to his administration's approach to law ...
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This chapter rounds up the discussion of Richard M. Nixon's role in illicit drug use in the United States. It can be noted that Nixon was re-elected partly due to his administration's approach to law and order concerns, as well as drug abuse and crimes related to it. It first studies one of the most controversial 1972 initiatives of Nixon, the Office of Drug Abuse Law Enforcement (ODALE), which served to allow the federal government to help local government units prod addicts to enter treatment and enforce drug laws. It then turns to the issue of legalizing marijuana and the efforts that were put in place to catch attention for Nixon's anti-narcotics programs. This chapter also looks at Nixon's other efforts to solve the drug use issue, the collaboration between ODALE and the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP), and the de-emphasis process for the 1972 federal drug abuse control policy. The chapter ends with a discussion of Nixon's resignation on August 8, 1974.Less
This chapter rounds up the discussion of Richard M. Nixon's role in illicit drug use in the United States. It can be noted that Nixon was re-elected partly due to his administration's approach to law and order concerns, as well as drug abuse and crimes related to it. It first studies one of the most controversial 1972 initiatives of Nixon, the Office of Drug Abuse Law Enforcement (ODALE), which served to allow the federal government to help local government units prod addicts to enter treatment and enforce drug laws. It then turns to the issue of legalizing marijuana and the efforts that were put in place to catch attention for Nixon's anti-narcotics programs. This chapter also looks at Nixon's other efforts to solve the drug use issue, the collaboration between ODALE and the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP), and the de-emphasis process for the 1972 federal drug abuse control policy. The chapter ends with a discussion of Nixon's resignation on August 8, 1974.
Peter A. Bamberger, Samuel B. Bacharach, Kathleen A. Briggs, and Meira Ben-Gad
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- June 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199374120
- eISBN:
- 9780190216894
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199374120.003.0006
- Subject:
- Psychology, Health Psychology
This chapter discusses other forms of substance abuse (i.e., illicit drugs and prescription medications) in late life, in general, and in relation to retirement, in particular. Drawing from the ...
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This chapter discusses other forms of substance abuse (i.e., illicit drugs and prescription medications) in late life, in general, and in relation to retirement, in particular. Drawing from the results of the authors’ own 10-year study as well as from other studies, the chapter seeks to answer such questions as the following: How widespread is drug abuse/misuse in the older population, and what are the consequences of such behavior for individuals, their families, and society? What individual characteristics and demographic factors (e.g., age) might influence the use of illicit drugs or misuse of prescription drugs in late life? And can factors related to retirement (bridge employment, age at retirement) be identified as affecting individuals’ vulnerability to abusing substances other than alcohol?Less
This chapter discusses other forms of substance abuse (i.e., illicit drugs and prescription medications) in late life, in general, and in relation to retirement, in particular. Drawing from the results of the authors’ own 10-year study as well as from other studies, the chapter seeks to answer such questions as the following: How widespread is drug abuse/misuse in the older population, and what are the consequences of such behavior for individuals, their families, and society? What individual characteristics and demographic factors (e.g., age) might influence the use of illicit drugs or misuse of prescription drugs in late life? And can factors related to retirement (bridge employment, age at retirement) be identified as affecting individuals’ vulnerability to abusing substances other than alcohol?
Thomas F. Babor, Jonathan Caulkins, Benedikt Fischer, David Foxcroft, Keith Humphreys, María Elena Medina-Mora, Isidore Obot, Jürgen Rehm, Peter Reuter, Robin Room, Ingeborg Rossow, and John Strang
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- August 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780198818014
- eISBN:
- 9780191859410
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198818014.003.0004
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Five types of morbidity and mortality have been identified as the main health expressions of health harm associated with illicit drug use: 1) overdose; 2) other injury; 3) non-communicable physical ...
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Five types of morbidity and mortality have been identified as the main health expressions of health harm associated with illicit drug use: 1) overdose; 2) other injury; 3) non-communicable physical disease; 4) mental disorders; and 5) infectious disease. Burden of disease estimates combining years of life lost due to premature mortality and disability indicate that illicit drugs ranked eighth among causes of disease, death, and disability in developed regions of the world. Opioids, cocaine, and amphetamines entail greater risks, especially when they are injected. Many harmful consequences are not completely intrinsic to the properties of the drug, but instead are associated with the physical and social environment in which drug use takes place. These epidemiological considerations need to be taken into account in the allocation of resources for prevention programmes, treatment, and social services.Less
Five types of morbidity and mortality have been identified as the main health expressions of health harm associated with illicit drug use: 1) overdose; 2) other injury; 3) non-communicable physical disease; 4) mental disorders; and 5) infectious disease. Burden of disease estimates combining years of life lost due to premature mortality and disability indicate that illicit drugs ranked eighth among causes of disease, death, and disability in developed regions of the world. Opioids, cocaine, and amphetamines entail greater risks, especially when they are injected. Many harmful consequences are not completely intrinsic to the properties of the drug, but instead are associated with the physical and social environment in which drug use takes place. These epidemiological considerations need to be taken into account in the allocation of resources for prevention programmes, treatment, and social services.
David F. Musto and Pamela Korsmeyer
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300090369
- eISBN:
- 9780300137842
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300090369.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, American Politics
Between 1960 and 1980 various administrations attempted to deal with a rising tide of illicit drug use that was unprecedented in U.S. history. This book provides a close look at the politics and ...
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Between 1960 and 1980 various administrations attempted to deal with a rising tide of illicit drug use that was unprecedented in U.S. history. This book provides a close look at the politics and bureaucracy of drug control policy during those years, showing how they changed during the presidencies of Johnson, Nixon, Ford, and Carter and how much current federal drug-control policies owe to those earlier efforts. The book bases its analysis on a unique collection of 5,000 pages of White House documents from the period. These documents reveal the intense debates that took place over drug policy. They show, for example, that staffers and cabinet officers who were charged with narcotics policy were often influenced by the cultural currents of their times, and when the public reacted in an extreme fashion to rising drug use, officials were disinclined to adopt modified policies that might have been more realistic. This investigation into the decision-making processes that shaped past drug control efforts in the United States provides essential background as creative approaches to the drug problem are sought for the future.Less
Between 1960 and 1980 various administrations attempted to deal with a rising tide of illicit drug use that was unprecedented in U.S. history. This book provides a close look at the politics and bureaucracy of drug control policy during those years, showing how they changed during the presidencies of Johnson, Nixon, Ford, and Carter and how much current federal drug-control policies owe to those earlier efforts. The book bases its analysis on a unique collection of 5,000 pages of White House documents from the period. These documents reveal the intense debates that took place over drug policy. They show, for example, that staffers and cabinet officers who were charged with narcotics policy were often influenced by the cultural currents of their times, and when the public reacted in an extreme fashion to rising drug use, officials were disinclined to adopt modified policies that might have been more realistic. This investigation into the decision-making processes that shaped past drug control efforts in the United States provides essential background as creative approaches to the drug problem are sought for the future.
Jorge Delva, Paula Allen-Meares, and Sandra L. Momper
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195382501
- eISBN:
- 9780199777419
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195382501.003.0004
- Subject:
- Social Work, Research and Evaluation
In this chapter we present two examples of longitudinal studies. Both studies utilize an etic–emic approach and both are underway in urban, cosmopolitan areas. In both studies the etic approach stems ...
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In this chapter we present two examples of longitudinal studies. Both studies utilize an etic–emic approach and both are underway in urban, cosmopolitan areas. In both studies the etic approach stems from the use of standardized, previously validated instruments and a design that called for a specific research protocol. We describe how the emic perspective was incorporated into the respective projects through a detailed discussion of how positive working partnerships were formed and maintained and the ways by which the questionnaires were constructed, pilot tested, and revised. We note that for both projects being culturally sensitive to the populations had more to do with our paying attention and being sensitive to language, gender, age, race and ethnicity, and poverty. In this chapter we also provide a brief conceptual discussion of data analytic considerations for longitudinal data.Less
In this chapter we present two examples of longitudinal studies. Both studies utilize an etic–emic approach and both are underway in urban, cosmopolitan areas. In both studies the etic approach stems from the use of standardized, previously validated instruments and a design that called for a specific research protocol. We describe how the emic perspective was incorporated into the respective projects through a detailed discussion of how positive working partnerships were formed and maintained and the ways by which the questionnaires were constructed, pilot tested, and revised. We note that for both projects being culturally sensitive to the populations had more to do with our paying attention and being sensitive to language, gender, age, race and ethnicity, and poverty. In this chapter we also provide a brief conceptual discussion of data analytic considerations for longitudinal data.
Joy G. Dryfoos and Carol Barkin
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195179613
- eISBN:
- 9780199847358
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195179613.003.0005
- Subject:
- Psychology, Developmental Psychology
With moderate use, marijuana remains the most benign substance on the drug scene, safer not only than cocaine or heroin but alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and certainly cigarettes. Most teenagers have ...
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With moderate use, marijuana remains the most benign substance on the drug scene, safer not only than cocaine or heroin but alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and certainly cigarettes. Most teenagers have tried smoking cigarettes or drinking a beer at some point in their younger years. A much smaller number drink to excess or have tried hard drugs. Substance use follows distinct trends, with certain substances moving up the charts (marijuana) while others almost disappear (heroin). Marijuana use has become more common over the years than the use of other illicit drugs. All of these substances are subject to supply and demand, as well as to regulation and law enforcement. This chapter analyzes drug use by American teenagers, beginning with smoking and alcohol use and then moving on to harder or illegal drugs. It also discusses five examples of programs that had an impact on smoking and substance abuse.Less
With moderate use, marijuana remains the most benign substance on the drug scene, safer not only than cocaine or heroin but alcohol, pharmaceuticals, and certainly cigarettes. Most teenagers have tried smoking cigarettes or drinking a beer at some point in their younger years. A much smaller number drink to excess or have tried hard drugs. Substance use follows distinct trends, with certain substances moving up the charts (marijuana) while others almost disappear (heroin). Marijuana use has become more common over the years than the use of other illicit drugs. All of these substances are subject to supply and demand, as well as to regulation and law enforcement. This chapter analyzes drug use by American teenagers, beginning with smoking and alcohol use and then moving on to harder or illegal drugs. It also discusses five examples of programs that had an impact on smoking and substance abuse.
Jorge Delva, Paula Allen-Meares, and Sandra L. Momper
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195382501
- eISBN:
- 9780199777419
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195382501.003.0003
- Subject:
- Social Work, Research and Evaluation
This chapter illustrates the conduct of population-based studies by describing the implementation of a large school-based survey of substance use in several Central American countries. The project's ...
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This chapter illustrates the conduct of population-based studies by describing the implementation of a large school-based survey of substance use in several Central American countries. The project's methodology followed an etic approach although considerable work was conducted to validate and harmonize the instrument across countries and sites. The project's implementation involved a number of activities that required collaborators to navigate different cultural and geopolitical situations, some of them of a very sensitive nature, some of which we describe in this chapter. Through these examples, we hope readers will acquire a better understanding of the inner workings of these complicated multi-national projects. We also highlight the importance of building partnerships between country researchers and international organizations, including a discussion of protection issues for human subjects, and we provide an example of power analyses and an analytic strategy of accounting for clustering when conducting statistical analyses with these large studies.Less
This chapter illustrates the conduct of population-based studies by describing the implementation of a large school-based survey of substance use in several Central American countries. The project's methodology followed an etic approach although considerable work was conducted to validate and harmonize the instrument across countries and sites. The project's implementation involved a number of activities that required collaborators to navigate different cultural and geopolitical situations, some of them of a very sensitive nature, some of which we describe in this chapter. Through these examples, we hope readers will acquire a better understanding of the inner workings of these complicated multi-national projects. We also highlight the importance of building partnerships between country researchers and international organizations, including a discussion of protection issues for human subjects, and we provide an example of power analyses and an analytic strategy of accounting for clustering when conducting statistical analyses with these large studies.
Ko-lin Chin and Sheldon X. Zhang
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9781479895403
- eISBN:
- 9781479832514
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9781479895403.001.0001
- Subject:
- Sociology, Law, Crime and Deviance
In a country long associated with the trade in opiates, the Chinese government has for decades applied extreme measures to curtail the spread of illicit drugs, only to find that the problem has ...
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In a country long associated with the trade in opiates, the Chinese government has for decades applied extreme measures to curtail the spread of illicit drugs, only to find that the problem has worsened. Burma is blamed as the major producer of illicit drugs and conduit for the entry of drugs into China. Which organizations are behind the heroin trade? What problems and prospects of drug control in the so-called “Golden Triangle” drug-trafficking region are faced by Chinese and Southeast Asian authorities? This book examines the social organization of the trafficking of heroin from the Golden Triangle to China and the wholesale and retail distribution of the drug in China. Based on face-to-face interviews with hundreds of incarcerated drug traffickers, street-level drug dealers, users, and authorities, paired with extensive fieldwork in the border areas of Burma and China and several major urban centers in China and Southeast Asia, the book reveals how the drug trade has evolved in the Golden Triangle since the late 1980s. It also explores the marked characteristics of heroin traffickers; the relationship between drug use and sales in China; and how China compares to other international drug markets.Less
In a country long associated with the trade in opiates, the Chinese government has for decades applied extreme measures to curtail the spread of illicit drugs, only to find that the problem has worsened. Burma is blamed as the major producer of illicit drugs and conduit for the entry of drugs into China. Which organizations are behind the heroin trade? What problems and prospects of drug control in the so-called “Golden Triangle” drug-trafficking region are faced by Chinese and Southeast Asian authorities? This book examines the social organization of the trafficking of heroin from the Golden Triangle to China and the wholesale and retail distribution of the drug in China. Based on face-to-face interviews with hundreds of incarcerated drug traffickers, street-level drug dealers, users, and authorities, paired with extensive fieldwork in the border areas of Burma and China and several major urban centers in China and Southeast Asia, the book reveals how the drug trade has evolved in the Golden Triangle since the late 1980s. It also explores the marked characteristics of heroin traffickers; the relationship between drug use and sales in China; and how China compares to other international drug markets.
Kevin D. Shield and Jürgen Rehm
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- April 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780198714002
- eISBN:
- 9780191782282
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198714002.003.0005
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
The use of addictive substances dates back to the beginning of recorded history. Since 1990 consumption of addictive substances has rapidly increased, especially in developing countries, leading to ...
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The use of addictive substances dates back to the beginning of recorded history. Since 1990 consumption of addictive substances has rapidly increased, especially in developing countries, leading to increases in the mortality and morbidity burdens, especially for tobacco, alcohol, and illegal and non-medical drug consumption. However, for many conditions, the relationship between the use of addictive substances and health consequences is complex and causality has not yet been established. This is especially true for mental health conditions. In 2010 tobacco use was the third largest contributor to the burden of disease, alcohol was the fifth largest contributor, and illicit and non-medical drug use was the eighth largest contributor. Research on the health effects of pathological gambling disorder is currently sparse, making burden calculations for this disorder impossible. Therefore, additional research on and quantification of the physical and mental health impacts of this disorder are needed at the population level.Less
The use of addictive substances dates back to the beginning of recorded history. Since 1990 consumption of addictive substances has rapidly increased, especially in developing countries, leading to increases in the mortality and morbidity burdens, especially for tobacco, alcohol, and illegal and non-medical drug consumption. However, for many conditions, the relationship between the use of addictive substances and health consequences is complex and causality has not yet been established. This is especially true for mental health conditions. In 2010 tobacco use was the third largest contributor to the burden of disease, alcohol was the fifth largest contributor, and illicit and non-medical drug use was the eighth largest contributor. Research on the health effects of pathological gambling disorder is currently sparse, making burden calculations for this disorder impossible. Therefore, additional research on and quantification of the physical and mental health impacts of this disorder are needed at the population level.
Thomas F. Babor, Jonathan Caulkins, Benedikt Fischer, David Foxcroft, Keith Humphreys, María Elena Medina-Mora, Isidore Obot, Jürgen Rehm, Peter Reuter, Robin Room, Ingeborg Rossow, and John Strang
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- August 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780198818014
- eISBN:
- 9780191859410
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198818014.003.0001
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
The use of psychoactive substances is commonplace in many parts of the world, despite the efforts of policymakers, government officials, public health advocates, and concerned citizens to prevent, ...
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The use of psychoactive substances is commonplace in many parts of the world, despite the efforts of policymakers, government officials, public health advocates, and concerned citizens to prevent, eliminate, or control it. If previous experience can serve as a guide, in the future many countries will face periodic drug-use epidemics, followed by aggressive policy responses to suppress them. Continued endemic drug use generates a patchwork of policy responses that never quite keep up with the problem. The scientific evidence on the impact of policy constitutes the core interest of this book and consists of three broad approaches: programmes to prevent drug use, treatment and harm-minimization services that help heavy drug users change their behaviour, and supply control programmes to restrict access to illicit substances. This book suggests that public health concepts provide an important vehicle to coordinate supply control and demand reduction.Less
The use of psychoactive substances is commonplace in many parts of the world, despite the efforts of policymakers, government officials, public health advocates, and concerned citizens to prevent, eliminate, or control it. If previous experience can serve as a guide, in the future many countries will face periodic drug-use epidemics, followed by aggressive policy responses to suppress them. Continued endemic drug use generates a patchwork of policy responses that never quite keep up with the problem. The scientific evidence on the impact of policy constitutes the core interest of this book and consists of three broad approaches: programmes to prevent drug use, treatment and harm-minimization services that help heavy drug users change their behaviour, and supply control programmes to restrict access to illicit substances. This book suggests that public health concepts provide an important vehicle to coordinate supply control and demand reduction.
Patricia Conrod, Angelina Brotherhood, Harry Sumnall, Fabrizio Faggiano, and Reinout Wiers
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- April 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780198714002
- eISBN:
- 9780191782282
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198714002.003.0006
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Binge-drinking and illicit drug use are highly prevalent among European youth. Through mapping and a systematic review of reviews it is concluded that there is little review-level evidence to support ...
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Binge-drinking and illicit drug use are highly prevalent among European youth. Through mapping and a systematic review of reviews it is concluded that there is little review-level evidence to support the majority of approaches currently adopted and delivered by many Europe countries to address youth substance-related harm. Although some individual prevention programmes show beneficial effects on addictive behaviour outcomes, it is not currently possible to generalize beyond implementation of specific interventions to recommend any broad policy approaches based upon the underpinning principles of these programmes. Currently, recommendations with regard to effective approaches for addressing young people’s addictive behaviours can only be made with reference to ‘promising’ approaches. A further challenge lies in the practical need to balance the evidence base with what is feasible and desirable in the real world. Recommendations are provided to address these challenges, including a number of recommendations for future research.Less
Binge-drinking and illicit drug use are highly prevalent among European youth. Through mapping and a systematic review of reviews it is concluded that there is little review-level evidence to support the majority of approaches currently adopted and delivered by many Europe countries to address youth substance-related harm. Although some individual prevention programmes show beneficial effects on addictive behaviour outcomes, it is not currently possible to generalize beyond implementation of specific interventions to recommend any broad policy approaches based upon the underpinning principles of these programmes. Currently, recommendations with regard to effective approaches for addressing young people’s addictive behaviours can only be made with reference to ‘promising’ approaches. A further challenge lies in the practical need to balance the evidence base with what is feasible and desirable in the real world. Recommendations are provided to address these challenges, including a number of recommendations for future research.
Thomas F. Babor, Jonathan Caulkins, Benedikt Fischer, David Foxcroft, Keith Humphreys, María Elena Medina-Mora, Isidore Obot, Jürgen Rehm, Peter Reuter, Robin Room, Ingeborg Rossow, and John Strang
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- August 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780198818014
- eISBN:
- 9780191859410
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198818014.003.0016
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
Among the 47 options reviewed in this book, most show some evidence of effectiveness in at least one country, but the evidence is less than definitive for many others, either because the ...
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Among the 47 options reviewed in this book, most show some evidence of effectiveness in at least one country, but the evidence is less than definitive for many others, either because the interventions are ineffective, or the research is inadequate. Unfortunately, policies that have shown little or no evidence of effectiveness continue to be the preferred options of many countries and international organizations. The evidence reviewed in this book supports two overarching conclusions. First, an integrated and balanced approach to evidence-informed drug policy is more likely to benefit the public good than uncoordinated efforts to reduce drug supply and demand. Second, by shifting the emphasis toward a public health approach, it may be possible to reduce the extent of illicit drug use, prevent the escalation of new epidemics, and avoid the unintended consequences arising from the marginalization of drug users through severe criminal penalties.Less
Among the 47 options reviewed in this book, most show some evidence of effectiveness in at least one country, but the evidence is less than definitive for many others, either because the interventions are ineffective, or the research is inadequate. Unfortunately, policies that have shown little or no evidence of effectiveness continue to be the preferred options of many countries and international organizations. The evidence reviewed in this book supports two overarching conclusions. First, an integrated and balanced approach to evidence-informed drug policy is more likely to benefit the public good than uncoordinated efforts to reduce drug supply and demand. Second, by shifting the emphasis toward a public health approach, it may be possible to reduce the extent of illicit drug use, prevent the escalation of new epidemics, and avoid the unintended consequences arising from the marginalization of drug users through severe criminal penalties.
Peter A. Bamberger and Samuel B. Bacharach
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- June 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199374120
- eISBN:
- 9780190216894
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199374120.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Health Psychology
Substance misuse among older adults in the United States is a major hidden health threat, with broad implications for the welfare and quality of life of those misusing alcohol and drugs, as well as ...
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Substance misuse among older adults in the United States is a major hidden health threat, with broad implications for the welfare and quality of life of those misusing alcohol and drugs, as well as their families. Although retirement is often viewed as playing a key role in the onset and exacerbation of older adult substance misuse, research findings are inconclusive. The book begins by conducting a critical review of that research, paying particular attention to the difficulty of capturing the etiological role of retirement in older adult substance misuse when the very nature of retirement is in flux. The book then presents findings from a 10-year, longitudinal study designed to address both this issue as well as some of the more methodological shortcomings of prior studies. In addition to examining the direct impact of retirement on older adult substance misuse and disentangling the confounding effects of aging, it examines how individual differences, shifting social networks, preretirement work factors, conditions in retirement, and the interactions among each of these may affect subsequent misuse. On the basis of these etiological insights, the book examines the efficacy of contemporary individual- and policy-level interventions and proposes several alternative approaches to prevention and treatment.Less
Substance misuse among older adults in the United States is a major hidden health threat, with broad implications for the welfare and quality of life of those misusing alcohol and drugs, as well as their families. Although retirement is often viewed as playing a key role in the onset and exacerbation of older adult substance misuse, research findings are inconclusive. The book begins by conducting a critical review of that research, paying particular attention to the difficulty of capturing the etiological role of retirement in older adult substance misuse when the very nature of retirement is in flux. The book then presents findings from a 10-year, longitudinal study designed to address both this issue as well as some of the more methodological shortcomings of prior studies. In addition to examining the direct impact of retirement on older adult substance misuse and disentangling the confounding effects of aging, it examines how individual differences, shifting social networks, preretirement work factors, conditions in retirement, and the interactions among each of these may affect subsequent misuse. On the basis of these etiological insights, the book examines the efficacy of contemporary individual- and policy-level interventions and proposes several alternative approaches to prevention and treatment.
Jan Abel Olsen
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- September 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780198794837
- eISBN:
- 9780191836329
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198794837.003.0008
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter examines three health determinants that lie inside of individuals’ own control: diet, physical activity, and substance use. The choices exhibited over these three classes of goods (or ...
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This chapter examines three health determinants that lie inside of individuals’ own control: diet, physical activity, and substance use. The choices exhibited over these three classes of goods (or bads) have fundamental impacts on the health of the individual. Under each of them, three types of policy interventions are discussed: prices, regulations, and ‘nudges’. Generally, price interventions such as indirect taxation and subsidies are useful when demand is responsive to price changes, that is, on price-elastic goods. Regulations are required when consumers do not respond much to price changes, that is, for price-inelastic goods. The use of ‘nudges’ is based on the insight from behavioural economics that consumers are sensitive to how their choice sets are being presented. Through ‘choice architecture’ policymakers can help individuals make healthy choices rather than being victims of a short-sighted weak will.Less
This chapter examines three health determinants that lie inside of individuals’ own control: diet, physical activity, and substance use. The choices exhibited over these three classes of goods (or bads) have fundamental impacts on the health of the individual. Under each of them, three types of policy interventions are discussed: prices, regulations, and ‘nudges’. Generally, price interventions such as indirect taxation and subsidies are useful when demand is responsive to price changes, that is, on price-elastic goods. Regulations are required when consumers do not respond much to price changes, that is, for price-inelastic goods. The use of ‘nudges’ is based on the insight from behavioural economics that consumers are sensitive to how their choice sets are being presented. Through ‘choice architecture’ policymakers can help individuals make healthy choices rather than being victims of a short-sighted weak will.
Aleksandra Dubanowicz and Paul Lemmens
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- April 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780198714002
- eISBN:
- 9780191782282
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198714002.003.0008
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
The recent economic downturn has led to market instabilities, collapse of financial institutions, cuts in public spending, increase in overall unemployment rates, and a decrease of disposable income. ...
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The recent economic downturn has led to market instabilities, collapse of financial institutions, cuts in public spending, increase in overall unemployment rates, and a decrease of disposable income. Recession has an impact on people’s addictive behaviours. A literature review showed that, in general, consumption of alcohol and tobacco decline in times of crises, mainly due to the income effect, yet patterns of use alter and become more harmful. For illicit drug use evidence of both pro- and counter-cyclical change has been found. Research on gambling behaviour remains inconclusive, with a slight tendency towards a decline. The main mechanisms identified are effects of declining disposable income, changes in structure of everyday life due to unemployment and loss of social roles. Addiction experts identify vulnerable social categories, such as the unemployed, low-educated, addicts, and adolescents. The negative impacts of recessions are worsened by introduction of welfare cuts.Less
The recent economic downturn has led to market instabilities, collapse of financial institutions, cuts in public spending, increase in overall unemployment rates, and a decrease of disposable income. Recession has an impact on people’s addictive behaviours. A literature review showed that, in general, consumption of alcohol and tobacco decline in times of crises, mainly due to the income effect, yet patterns of use alter and become more harmful. For illicit drug use evidence of both pro- and counter-cyclical change has been found. Research on gambling behaviour remains inconclusive, with a slight tendency towards a decline. The main mechanisms identified are effects of declining disposable income, changes in structure of everyday life due to unemployment and loss of social roles. Addiction experts identify vulnerable social categories, such as the unemployed, low-educated, addicts, and adolescents. The negative impacts of recessions are worsened by introduction of welfare cuts.
Swathi M. Reddy, Kristin Bolton, Cynthia Franklin, and Karla Gonzalez Suitt
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- December 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780190678784
- eISBN:
- 9780190678814
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780190678784.003.0008
- Subject:
- Social Work, Health and Mental Health
This chapter describes how SFBT has been used in the treatment of substance use and relies on the clinical literature to illustrate interventions. Specific ways to engage clients with substance use ...
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This chapter describes how SFBT has been used in the treatment of substance use and relies on the clinical literature to illustrate interventions. Specific ways to engage clients with substance use will be covered, including the questions to ask in order to promote change. In addition, this chapter will describe a case where SFBT has been used with a client with alcohol use disorder and explain how SFBT may be used in groups to treat substance use. Finally, this chapter will discuss the emerging outcome literature on SFBT with clients who have substance use including studies that assess substance use and trauma.Less
This chapter describes how SFBT has been used in the treatment of substance use and relies on the clinical literature to illustrate interventions. Specific ways to engage clients with substance use will be covered, including the questions to ask in order to promote change. In addition, this chapter will describe a case where SFBT has been used with a client with alcohol use disorder and explain how SFBT may be used in groups to treat substance use. Finally, this chapter will discuss the emerging outcome literature on SFBT with clients who have substance use including studies that assess substance use and trauma.
