Illicit use of Amphetamines

Essay # 66209

Psychology > Alcohol and Drugs
Psychology > Disorders

A discussion about the illicit use of amphetamines by college students.

2,686 words () | 11 sources | MLA | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper explains that attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are treated by amphetamines. It states that these amphetamines have become popular as recreational drugs. The paper explains the effects of using prescription stimulants on the body and especially the brain. The writer discusses how the college environment is often the first time young adults have some freedom and that they use this freedom to explore things that may have been restricted in the past. It discusses how peer pressure can lead to drug use and abuse. In conclusion, the writer states that the use of amphetamines must be controlled, not only because it is illegal, but because the individuals using it are all relatives or friends to someone in the world.

From the Paper:

"Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are behavioral disorders affecting attention span, impulse control, and self-discipline. They are usually associated with children, although adults can suffer from the same disorders. Typically medicated with psycho stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin (mixed salt amphetamines and methylphenidate) - much concern is placed over these drugs due to problems such as the illicit use of these prescription medications (McCabe, Knight, Teter, and Wechsler 96). A major demographic who abuse or illegally obtain these drugs are undergraduate and graduate school students (McCabe, Knight, Teter, and Wechsler 103). Adderall and Ritalin are becoming popular as recreational drugs on college campuses. The drugs are being used at parties and clubs, where they are combined with other drugs such as alcohol, ecstasy, or other illicit drugs to enhance the effects. Another function these drugs serve on college campuses is as a study aid to increase students' attention spans and prolong the onset of sleep in order to do all-night study sessions. The college habitat is a breeding ground for the prominent use of various drugs and other illegal activities. Being away from parental supervision and become an independent allows students to explore new paths of life such as the use of illegal drugs. Through interaction between friends and peers the ability to network these drugs to others comes without any difficulty. Access to stimulants such as Adderall is not a problem for many and is something that is even more accessible and used when midterms and finals roll around. A competitive state of mind is something that is drilled into the minds of many students who want to achieve the best and pursue professional careers in various fields of work. These students are the ones that will go by any means necessary to achieve this perfection even if it is illegal and hazardous to their health and well being. Though, this is becoming more common around campuses and universities around the country it is a matter that is pertinent to be made aware of. When students freely self-administer these stimulants they are putting themselves at possible health risks including death. Through knowledge and awareness we can educate future students to be more cautious and be more conscious when doing illicit drugs. It is by this means we can make sure for the future generations to come of how important it is to be aware of the dangers involved in taking prescription drugs illicitly and the consequences that could result from them. Raising people's awareness should extend beyond the ramifications of health and psyche, but for the pain and agony they will cause to family and friends if either injured or harmed from taking the drug."