Social and Psychological Aspects of Drug Abuse

DRUG ABUSE : PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES

2007

When we think of drug abuse , we often visualize the physical : trembling sweating , pale

individuals , emotions amplified and rationale removed . Traditional definitions of drug abuse

focused on these factors as well , highlighting the physical dependence that results from excess

use of any category of drugs . However , reputable organizations such as the American Psychiatric

Association and the World Health Organization have worked towards a more inclusive definition

of drug use . Recent definitions include the vital dimensions of psychology and sociology as

well (Definitions , 2006 . While psychological and social effects of drug use are well-documented

what contributions can these two fields of study make in understanding the causes of drug abuse

Many drug abusers operate on a relentless psychological cycle of positive and negative

reinforcement . Individuals often enter a drug experience with expectations of reward

Cognitively , they view the drugs as a means to achieve good feelings Several drug classes

enforce this notion , at least initially . For example , cocaine and other stimulants sharpen mental

activity and produce pleasurable sensations within the body . Such drugs also lower inhibitions

creating a short-term confident and optimistic outlook on life (Drugs /drug abuse , 2004 . The key

however , is that positive effects are short-term . The user will crash especially as long-term use

escalates into dependence and addiction . The central nervous system becomes overloaded with

each new fix , often requiring the user to seek out a way to come down ' from the high (Definitions , 2006 . Often , the method of choice for combating an intense high is depressants

Another category of drugs , depressants such as alcohol and barbiturates can also produce

positive moods within an individual . Depressant effects , however , are attractive to the individual

because of their ability to alleviate physical and emotional pain . Some common side effects of

depressant consumption are calmness , fear reduction , a slowing of reflexes , and drowsiness (Drugs /drug abuse , 2004 . These symptoms are attractive characteristics for a person who may

be seeking refuge from intense personal adversity

When properly used , drugs are the ultimate form of negative reinforcement . They relieve

aches and pains , combat stress and anxiety , and help their consumers lead a fully functional life

However , when drug users begin to view drugs as an emotional crutch devastating addiction

often follows . The American Psychiatric Association 's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Diss acknowledges that drug use is frequently symptomatic of larger psychological

issues , and not simply a mere threat within itself (Definitions , 2006 Depressive and anxiety

diss often possess a high rate of correlation with substance abuse issues (National Institute

on Drug Abuse , 2006 . Further , researchers Milkman and Sunderwidth studied the personality

characteristics of addicts , and found some revealing patterns , namely low self-esteem

helplessness , a need for escapism , and a desire for risk-taking behavior (Keel , 2006 . In addition

young children who have experimented with drugs report several common reasons for their drug

usage . They see drugs as a way to eliminate pain , to relax and feel positive , to ease boredom , and

to demonstrate independence (Growing...