Assessing the Nature and Dimensions of the Drug Problem

In: The annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, Band 417, S. 76-85

Abstract

Over the years, various attempts have been made to define, describe & measure the nature & dimensions of psychoactive drug use in the US. Problems of definition associated with the traditional concept of "drug abuse" are presented. The various formulations of "the drug problem" are examined. The efficacy of the survey method & other research techniques currently utilized to estimate the nature & extent of drug use are assessed. Some of the efforts made by the National Commission on Marijuana & Drug Abuse to provide guidance & direction in this area to researchers & policy makers alike are reported. HA.