Question

A basic principle about using psychoactive drugs for recreational or non-therapeutic purposes is that "each drug taking event is a unique event." Briefly explain the multiple variables that make this statement true. In your discussion, be sure to include a brief explanation for your choice.

a. at least two examples of "user" variables: those that make each drug-taking experience different. (you can address this either for the same user, or between two users, when everything else - the drug and setting - are held constant.)

b. at least two examples of "drug" variables: the characteristics of the drug that make each drug-taking event different.for the same user. These factors often account for unpredictable effects.

c. at least one example of "setting" variables: how the setting in which the drug is taken can changes the experience, even for the same user using the same drug.

Label your answers a., (1) (2)., b. (1), (2), and c.

Answer 1

Use of psychoactive drugs for recreational or non-therapeutic purposes or drug abuse occurs as a result of a series of biological, psychosocial, and contextual (social and environmental) variables which have complex interrelationships. While considering one variable its interrelationship with other variables also has to be considered.

a. User variables:

1.Personality Traits:

The researchers have provided much evidence that some personality traits have much influence on drug abuse. This is more evident in adolescents. Drug abuse is commonly seen in families with siblings or parents substance abuse. The individual differences will also affect the drug effects. The effectiveness of the drug is always subjective.

2. Peer factors:

Negative peer pressure influence substance abuse. The tendency to try something new along with peer influence and pressure leads to the vulnerability to drug use in young people. The prevalent myths of drugs can help overcome boredom, depression, stress, and fatigue will add to the problem. The glamorization of drug use will mislead the young people. The use of drug along with peers can give a sense of togetherness and they can involve in group activities with a greater feeling of oneness.

Other individual variables are Age, Sex, and Occupation

b. Drug Variable:

1.Availability of drug:

The easy availability of drug leads to the widespread misuse. When the dug is hard to get automatically the consumption rate decreases. The easily available drugs are widely used and they can create the desired experience different.

2. A quantity of drug:

When the required quantity of a drug is low to reach the effect its chance of abuse increases. The quantity of drug used also affect the experience provided by the drug.

Easy to use:

The methods of use also determine the drug abuse. Drugs in the forms of stamps are more widely used than the injectable.

c.Setting variables:

Use in public:

Some drug addicts prefer the drug use in isolation but many others prefer it in a group. The group use can leads to unmanageable behaviors sometimes.

Poor socio economic status:

The drug use is widely seen in low-income groups. Lack of social support and insecurity will make the problem worse.

Unemployment:

Unemployment leads to distress and it is a social stressor. The lack of meeting survival needs and lack of effective utilization of time can increase the chance of drug abuse.