Canada has received significant attention of late for initiating a government-sponsored medical marijuana program and for its flirtation with marijuana decriminalization. At best, these initiatives have contributed to Canada being seen as a reluctant ally by Washington, and, at worst, as a potential threat. The result of this impression is increasing American pressure to adopt more robust domestic security policies. At the same time, the Canadian public sees itself as holding unique values that differ from those held by its neighbour to the south. Supposedly these values are best reflected by a distinctive security outlook which produces reasonable responses to potential threats, a sharp contrast to the manic actions of the United States.

Chasing Dragons challenges these presumptions of difference and exposes the security politics and policy that they make possible. Focusing on the issues surrounding illicit drugs, Kyle Grayson examines how discourses and practices of security policy actually contribute to the construction of Canadian national and cultural identity. This analysis is also relevant beyond Canada. Crucially, this book identifies the dangers of underestimating the centrality of race and geopolitics to civic conceptions of nationality in liberal societies.

Chasing Dragons reconsiders the meaning of security. Additionally, it discusses avenues for resisting the insecurity produced by liberal states in the post-9/11 world. This critical approach reveals the pervasiveness of power in contemporary Canadian society, how this power is hidden, and the consequences for progressive social politics.

The use and misuse of psychoactive substances is one of the most widely discussed and yet least understood social processes. It is easy to condemn the use of illicit drugs, as well as alcohol and tobacco, as problems that require the services of professionals and the retribution of the state. Sight has been lost of the contributions that drugs have played in society and culture and the key role they play in ritual, religion and possibly human evolution. "Drugs and the World" restores the constructive aspect of drug use to the discussion, and reviews the policies and interventions that make up the contemporary web of drug controls. Axel Klein traces the classification of substances to define 'drugs', and examines the links with both crime and addiction. He investigates the arguments made concerning the role of drugs, first in human evolution and then in history, to underscore their importance in the development of trade and nation states. Drawing on research from around the world, this book illustrates how global efforts to suppress drugs have had little impact on drug use, but have instead eroded institutions of the state, corrupted law enforcement and courts, and undermined the democratic process. Providing new material from the Caribbean, West Africa and the Caucasus to illustrate the bizarre consequences of an internationally devised drug-control programme, Drugs and the World moves to discussing the contribution of drugs to contemporary society, and ways of regulating their use and distribution. Written by an expert author with more than fifteen years experience in the field of drug use, addiction prevention and drug policy, this book will appeal to a wide audience of readers wishing to know more about the use of illicit drugs in the world today.

The long awaited Second Edition of Criminal Conduct and Substance Abuse Treatment, Provider's Guide is finally here. Now treatment providers and substance abuse counselors can find a wealth of information on how to implement the Strategies for Self Improvement and Change (SSC) curriculum efficiently and effectively. Although the Second Edition workbook can be used alone, the Second Edition Provider's Guide was written to build upon the foundation of the First Edition and provide enhanced information and adjunct exercises to supplement session delivery. It was also designed to help providers realize the essential traits and skills necessary to help ensure client success. The Provider's Guide is divided into three critical sections. The first section presents the core strategies upon which the SSC curriculum is built. This includes a conceptual framework which is essentially the thread of the program. Chapters 2-6 provide the foundational strategies of the curriculum, including: developing a therapeutic relationship through motivational enhancement; essential traits of providers; emphasis of the counselor as educator; a presentation of the phases of learning and stages of change; an introduction to the cognitive-behavioral approach; and finally a discussion of preventing relapse and recidivism - two major treatment goals. Section II provides the specific methods, procedures, and skills for the implementation and delivery of the SSC treatment curriculum. This includes a chapter on the assessment protocol, which is critical in order to accurately assess the issues, problems and vulnerabilities of the client. Chapter 7 outlines the operational procedures, such as the essential skills of the provider and guidelines for reentry and the aftercare plan. Finally, Section III provides guidelines for the delivery of the SSC modules and the individual treatment sessions as well as the phase closure sessions. It also provides adjunct informat

Cigarette smoking during childhood and adolescence produces significant health problems among young people, including cough and phlegm production, an increase in the number and severity of respiratory illnesses, decreased physical fitness, an unfavourable lipid profile and potential retardation in the rate of lung growth and the level of maximum lung function in addition to leading to long-term smoking and the numerous diseases connected with that including cancer and others. In this new book adolescent smoking is researched pertaining to the health complications that young adults will endure, as well as the different social aspects of what causes an adolescent to begin smoking in the first place including peer pressure. Several methods of smoking cessation are discussed.

Methamphetamine (METH) abuse has become a major public health problem world-wide, as demonstrated by increases in the number of emergency room visits, substance abuse treatment episodes, and arrests attributable to METH manufacture and abuse. However, there are currently no pharmacological treatments for the wide range of symptoms associated with METH abuse. One of the reasons for this problem is that our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the development of METH-induced psychosis and dependence is limited. This book presents a review of the recent findings on METH abuse in humans. First by describing the background and physiological effects of METH in humans. Next, by discussing the clinical findings on METH abusers derived using brain imaging techniques (single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)). Finally, by reviewing the potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of METH abusers.

This toolkit is designed to support practitioners in their work with families where parents misuse drugs and there are concerns about the children's welfare. While focusing on drugs, it covers a wider pattern of misuse, including alcohol. It contains: summaries of key messages for practitioners tools and tips to support effective practice training and development activities a wide range of practice examples The toolkit is written for the range of professionals involved with families including drug misusing parents.

Have the nations of the world begun to converge with respect to drug policy? Which countries have remained apart from the international dialogue? Which have taken steps to forge new, more liberal policies stressing education, treatment, and alternative community-based intervention? Focusing specifically on cannabis, cocaine, and heroin, Illicit Drug Policies, Trafficking, and Use the World Over presents a brief history and analysis of the current laws and policies regarding illicit drugs_widely considered to be a growing international health threat_in twenty five different countries. With its wide breadth of data and analysis, this volume will be valuable for both scholars and students of this seemingly intractable social, legal, and political problem.

Drug Abuse (NIDA) funded research project on drug information and online drug-related communities. The editors of this pivotal text, Edward Murguia, Ann Lessem, and Melissa Tackett-Gibson, elevate the debate about drug use and the Internet from a polemic discourse to social scientific investigation. The essays confront issues related to the study of drug communication online, including the causal factors of abuse as discussed in online forums, the relationship between music and drug use in virtual communities, and the ways in which individuals assess the accuracy of online drug information. This book highlights the variety of ways to examine drug use as a social problem and presents several theoretical perspectives valuable to online research. Real Drugs in a Virtual World is an enlightening and thought provoking read that will appeal to sociology students and those interested in virtual communities.

Substance abuse is one of society's most serious problems. Drugs seem to be readily available even in elementary schools, which attests to the success of the drug purveyors and the failure of law enforcement officials, education administrators and parents. As an example, in the U.S. in 2003, there were nearly 1.7 million admissions to publicly funded substance abuse treatment programs. Most admissions (23.2 percent) were for alcohol treatment. Marijuana accounted for the largest percentage of illicit drug admissions (15.4 percent), followed by heroin (14.4 percent). This book presents new and important research dealing with treatments and treatment programs aimed at alleviating the misery and loses to society of this vicious behavioural disorder.

The word 'substance' can refer to a drug of abuse, a medication or a toxin. 'Polysubstance' Abuse/Dependence means that a person abuses or depends upon more than one substance, with one usually being that person's favourite or 'drug of choice'. It is important to note that we are not only referring to illegal drugs; over the counter or prescription drugs are often abused as well. The more commonly abused drugs today are cocaine, marijuana, inhalants and heroin. Substance exposure that can cause substance related disorders include heavy metals (e.g., lead, rat poison containing strychnine, certain pesticides, nerve gas, antifreeze, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide). The medications, both prescriptive and over the counter, that may cause substance related disorders include anaesthetics, analgesics, anticonvulsants, antihistamines, blood pressure and heart medication and muscle relaxants. This important book presents state-of-the-art research in this field.

This book explores the origins, history and organisation of the international system of narcotic drug control with a specific focus on heroin, cannabis and cocaine. It argues that the century-long quest to eliminate the production, trade in and use of narcotic drugs has been a profound failure. The statistics produced by the international and domestic narcotic drug control agencies point to a sustained expansion of the drug trade, despite the imposition of harsh criminal sanctions against those engaged, as producers, traffickers or consumers, in the narcotic drugs market. The roots of this major international policy failure are traced back to the outdated ideology of prohibition, which is shown to be counterproductive, utopian and a fundamentally inadequate basis for narcotic drug policy in the twenty-first century. Prohibition, championed by many US policy makers, has left the international community poorly positioned to confront those changes to the drug trade and drug markets that have resulted from globalisation. Moreover, prohibition based approaches are causing more harm than good, as is demonstrated through reference to issues such as HIV/AIDS, the environment, conflict, development and social justice. As the drug control system approaches its centenary, there are signs that the global consensus on narcotic drug prohibition is fracturing. Some European and South American states are pushing for a new approach based on regulation, decriminalisation and harm reduction. But those seeking to revise prohibition strategies faces entrenched resistance, primarily by the U.S. This important text argues that successive American governments have pursued a contradictory approach; acting decisively against the narcotic drug trade at home and abroad, while at the same time working with drug traffickers and producer states when it is in America's strategic interest. As a result, US policy approaches emerge as a decisive factor in accounting for the failure of prohibition.

The proposed Andean Regional Initiative recognises that the problem of illegal drug trade must be addressed with a two-track strategy. Interdiction and eradication efforts must be accompanied with financial assistance that strengthens legal economic activity and democratic institutions. The problem of drugs and violence in the Andean region will not be solved unless more effort is put into improving the social and economic conditions that create the breeding ground for illegal activities. to improve the quality of life for the rural poor and assists in the creation of legal employment opportunities. It also aims to strengthen democratic institutions, combat corruption and make justice systems more accessible and efficient for all citizens. This book delves into the mire of issues that the Andean Regional Initiative has created and discusses the most volatile and recent ones. Initiative: Fact Sheet; DEA Congressional Testimony; Importance of Andean Regional Initiative; Andean Regional Initiative; Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2002 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbours; Colombia: Summary and Tables on U. S. Assistance, FY1989-FY2003; Andean Regional Initiative (ARI): FY2003 Supplemental and FY2004 Assistance for Colombia and Neighbours; Why we Oppose the Andean Regional Initiative; Plan Colombia and the Andean Regional Initiative; US Policy Toward the Andean Region; The Andean Trade Preference Act; Index.

A columnist and editor for Reason magazine charges that the government and media have exaggerated the public's fears of recreational drugs, calling for better educational methods about the actual risks and challenges of addiction so that people can make realistically informed choices. Reprint. 15,00

Drugs affect every aspect of our society with youths presenting the highest group addicted. Unfortunately, traditional drug treatment programs historically have not considered involving youths to a significant degree. In Youths Serving Youths In Drug Education Programs, George Taylor contends that youth involvement in drug treatment programs is beneficial because: 1. Peer groups appear to be more successful with youth drug abusers better than traditional methods. 2. Youths tend to communicate and address issues associated with drug problems, such as culture, values and socioeconomic conditions, at a level that is more easily understood. 3. Youths appear to be more culturally sensitive to each other when dealing with drug related problems. Youths Serving Youths in Drug Education Programs (Y.S.Y.D.E.P.) is mostly student driven, with youths fully participating in all aspects of the drug program. Youths chosen for this proposed program must be drug free and highly recommended by educators, parents, peers, and community agencies. They must be above average in communication, social and academic skills, be trained extensively in drug education, and be certified to be involved. Research findings show that using youths in drug education programs helps to significantly increase abstinence among youths taking drugs. Research also has consistently supported strategies proposed by Elford as an innovative approach to reducing drug usage among youth. This is a must read for anyone involved in drug education programs.

Thomas Szasz suggests that governments have overstepped their bounds in labeling and prohibiting certain drugs as ""dangerous"" substances and incarcerating drug ""addicts"" in order to cure them. Szasz asserts that such policies scapegoat illegal drugs and the persons who use and sell them, and discourage the breaking of drug habits by pathologizing drug use as ""addiction."" Readers will find in Szasz's arguments a cogent and committed response to a worldwide debate.

Marijuana hit mainstream America over 30 years ago and has been accepted by a large segment of society ever since. Despite government efforts to isolate and eliminate its use, it is more popular now than ever. Why Marijuana Should Be Legal analyzes the effects of marijuana and marijuana laws on society. The book addresses the drug's industrial and medical applications, preserving our Constitutional rights, economic costs, health effects, and sociological aspects. New and updated information includes how state officials are acting against the legalization of marijuana and how U.S. marijuana laws are based on inaccurate and outdated information. In discussing such issues and many more, the book presents clear, documented evidence for all of its conclusions. Also included is an annotated list of organizations that lobby for change of marijuana laws. "Rosenthal and Kubby offer crisp, well-reasoned arguments for legalizing marijuana.",Mike Tribby, Booklist "[A]n important contribution to the current national dialog on moves toward the decriminalization of this controversial drug.",The Midwest Book Review

"This book takes an integrative approach to the understanding of drug use and its relationship to social-cultural factors. It is lucidly and powerfully argued and constitutes a significant achievement. The authors sensibly argue that in order to fully understand and explain drug use and abuse it is necessary to take into account different levels of analysis, reflecting distinct domains of human functioning; the biological, psychosocial, and cultural-historical?.Overall, this book represents an exceptional achievement and should be of interest to drug clinicians and researcher as well as social scientists and students."

--Professor Tony Ward, University of Melbourne

Substance use and abuse are two of the most frequent psychological problems clinicians encounter. Mainstream approaches focus on the biological and psychological factors supporting drug abuse. But to fully comprehend the issue, clinicians need to consider the social, historical, and cultural factors responsible for drug-related problems.

Substance Use and Abuse: Cultural and Historical Perspectives provides an inclusive explanation of the human desire to take drugs. Using a multidisciplinary framework, authors Russil Durrant and Jo Thakker explore the cultural and historical variables that contribute to drug use. Integrating biological, psychosocial, and cultural-historical perspectives, this innovative and accessible volume addresses the fundamental question of why drug use is such a ubiquitous feature of human society.

Addressing issues important to prevention, treatment, and public policy, the authors include

• A comprehensive, historical survey of drug use
• An exploration of the evolutionary basis of drug-taking behavior
• Historically and culturally based explanations of drug use and abuse
• Inclusive approaches that complement mainstream biopsychosocial perspectives

Designed for upper-division undergraduate and graduate students in psychology, counseling, sociology, social work, and health departments, Substance Use and Abuse: Cultural and Historical Perspectives will also be of significant interest to drug clinicians, researchers, and social scientists.

While well over one million small-time drug users languish in overcrowded prisons because of nonviolent drug offenses, tens of thousands of others get rich from legal and illegal drugs. Drug company representatives persuade doctors to prescribe inferior products. Children as young as two are routinely given powerful drugs. Legal drugs, taken exactly as prescribed, are a leading cause of illness and death. Scientists beholden to drug companies fabricate and misrepresent data. This eye-opening book richly documents disturbing trends in Western medicine and urges readers toward a broader understanding of drug use and abuse. Leavitt shows how and why American society must change its medical and policy approaches to drugs and re-orient medical practice to new ways of thinking.

Implementation strategies for Portugal1s new drug use policy This report analyzes Portugal1s recently changed national drug strategy, develops recommendations for its implementation, and offers analysis for evaluating its effects. Portugal1s strategy seeks to decriminalize possession and consumption of all drugs for personal use, reduce drug harm and risks, and offer prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The authors examine the history of Portugal1s drug problem over the past 75 years in light of the existing literature on drugs and drug abuse.

This fascinating history of international drug trafficking in the first half of the twentieth century follows the stories of American narcs and gangsters, Japanese spies, Chinese warlords, and soldiers of fortune whose lives revolved around opium. The drug trade centered on China, which was before 1949, the world's largest narcotic market. The authors tell the interlocking stories of the many extraordinary personalities_sinister and otherwise_involved in narcotics trafficking in Asia, Europe, and the United States. Drawing on a rich store of U.S., British, European, Japanese, and Chinese archives, this unique study will be invaluable for all readers interested in the drug trade and contemporary East Asian history.

U.S. policy toward Colombia has been driven to a large extent by counter-narcotics considerations, but the evolving situation in that South American country confronts the United States with as much of a national security as a drug policy problem.

What Were Your Parents Doing Back Then? is a comprehensive, in-depth study of teen drug and alcohol abuse that begins in the "hip" days of the 1970's, travels through the economic boom of the 1990's, and continues on until the present time. Lowney combines qualitative, descriptive research with statistical quantitative data over a 31-year period to present a human understanding of young people's drug use.

This book presents a culturally informed framework for understanding and treating substance abuse problems. From expert contributors, chapters cover specific ethnocultural groups in the United States, including Americans of African, Native American, Latino, European, Middle Eastern, and Asian descent. Authors examine how ethnocultural factors may affect a person's attitudes toward alcohol and other drugs, patterns of substance use, reasons for seeking treatment, and responsiveness to various interventions. Themes addressed include the impact of migration and acculturation issues, spiritual values and traditions, family structures, gender roles, and experiences of prejudice and discrimination. Featuring a wealth of illustrative clinical material, the book makes concrete recommendations for more competent, effective assessment and intervention. It also guides clinicians toward greater awareness of the ways their own ethnocultural backgrounds may affect their interactions with clients.

" This important book reveals why the young start smoking and why, as adults, they regret having started. It is a great contribution to helping end a national epidemic."

? CHERYL HEALTON, President/CEO, American Legacy Foundation

? MATTHEW MYERS, President, Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids

Do individuals really know and understand the risks entailed by their smoking decisions? The question is particularly important in the case of young persons, because most smokers start during childhood and adolescence. After years of intense publicity about the damages of smoking, it is generally believed that every teenager and adult in the U.S. knows that smoking is dangerous to health, thus decisions to smoke are informed choices. This book presents a counter-view, based on a survey of several thousand young persons and adults, probing attitudes, beliefs, feelings, and perceptions of risk associated with smoking. The authors agree that young smokers give little or no thought to health risks or the problems of addiction. The survey data contradicts the model of informed, rational choice and underscores the need for aggressive policies to counter tobacco firms? marketing and promotional efforts and to restrict youth access to tobacco.

New research has shown that children exposed to cocaine before birth are at risk of learning and behavioral problems. Such problems have broad implications for education, social welfare, and criminal justice in the United States. However, there are numerous opportunities to minimize prenatal cocaine exposure and its impacts and thus to enhance the well-being of women and their children. This report, a collaborative effort of the RAND Drug Policy Research Center and the New York Academy of Sciences, presents an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the effects of cocaine on the developing brain and offers policy considerations for addressing the issues that arise from cocaine use by pregnant women. The report discusses three prevention strategies: primary prevention (preventing substance use before and during pregnancy); secondary prevention (identifying pregnant women who use drugs and minimizing their drug use); and tertiary prevention (reducing the adverse consequences of substance exposure in children who were exposed in utero). In addition, the report presents a number of areas where more research is needed and offers a rationale for making more resources available for women and children affected by cocaine. (JD)