Examines how selected internal and external control variables influence lifetime use, frequency of use, and cessation of use of marijuana. Indicates that both internal and external control factors are significant predictors of the frequency of marijuana use. Finds that the external control factor plays a more important role in explaining lifetime…

The drug problem exists as a cluster of problems affecting broad interests or groups. The issues are redistributive in that everything relates to everything else. It seems apparent that a cluster of policies and programs need development as well as genuine citizen participation in the formulation of these policies. (Author)

The purpose of this study is to examine how different types of students respond to various drug abuse prevention areas. This study is based on a school survey completed by 4,000 rural students and 2,700 suburban students. Students most involved with drugs were those least receptive to traditional educational programs. (Author)

College students were asked to respond to eighteen household, legal, and illegal drugs. Perceptions of strength and dangerousness were highly correlated. Usage and dangerousness tended to be negatively correlated while usage and pleasantness tended to be positively correlated. The dangerousness dimension separated the drugs into legal and illegal…

Explored drug overdose mortality and its economic consequences through examination of Texas mortality data from 1980-86. Compared crude mortality rates across 10 drug categories. Found drug overdose mortality costs had more than doubled over 6-year period. Found men had greater illicit drug overdose risk than women; women had greater prescribed…

An overview of addiction and crime is presented. Crimes of violence and sex crimes are contrasted with non-violent criminal behavior when drug-connected. It is suggested that alternative methods of dealing with drug abuse and criminal behavior be explored, and that several previously discarded methods be re-examined. (Author)

Studied a non-self-selected sample of chemically dependent people instructed in meditation techniques. Differences established upon training termination were no longer evident in the instructed group after six months. Subjects who reported continuing at least minimal meditative practices, however, showed differences in social adjustment, work…

Examines the relationship of 2 dimensions of the theory of social development--vulnerability and protectivity--in 2 samples, schoolchildren aged 10 to 15 (n=1,454) and addictive drug users (n=170). Finds that the most important protective factors act against substance use. Finds that among the predictors of the addicts some forms of escape from…

Research on family risk factors for addictive behaviors in young people has not paid a great deal of attention to parents' knowledge of their children's addictive behaviors and of the family risk factors that affect such behaviors. The aim of this work is to compare knowledge about these two aspects in two groups of parents that differ regarding…

A comprehensive review is presented of Drug Education programs for school students from 1967 to date. In general it was found that the great bulk of Drug Education programs reported were lacking in any meaningful evaluation that would provide data for guidance in the design of future programs. (Author)

In a paper presented at the National Drug Abuse Conference April 4-7, 1975, New Orleans, Louisiana, epidemiological and psychosocial approaches to drug abuse are discussed. An approach reflecting an appreciation of the psychological/social/political realities involved in addiction as well as a grounding in epidemiological principles and data is…

Evaluates the Drug Prevention in Youth risk reduction program that was implemented in shelters for runaway/homeless youths in the southeastern United States. An evaluation strategy was developed allowing for comparisons between peer-led, adult-led and nonintervention groups. Well-trained and motivated peer/near-peer leaders made particularly…

Describes a game that illuminates the dangers of chronic drug use. Provides facts, quotes, and episodic consequences that can adversely affect each player's mental and physical health, social support, and financial/legal situation. Discusses the game's conceptual underpinnings, development, and empirical findings. Lists potential applications in…

Describes a program to assess the vocational interests of clients at the Kankakee Drug Abuse Rehabilitation Center. The program attempted to intervene and impact those with erratic work histories. Results indicate clients made some job progress but the number changing jobs and seeking new employment did not change. (JAC)

This group study features a loss-grief inventory in the treatment of 98 substance abusers in an outpatient treatment facility. The inventory designed in this study serves both assessment (helps counselor and client identify unresolved loss-grief issues which may contribute to addiction) and treatment (assists the client through the grieving…