Abstract This paper examines the reasons why individuals choose to use controlled substances. It discusses possible factors that affect felony drug offenders that are ordered to complete substance abuse treatment by the court. It also looks at the characteristics of these felony drug offenders that are ordered to complete substance abuse treatment. Lastly, the paper examines community and agency needs that are associated with drug use and suggests a possible plan of action to address the problem.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Why Do People Use Drugs? A Rational Choice Perspective
Criminal History
Substance Abuse Treatment History
Employment Status
Community Need
Agency Need
Plan of Action
Conclusion
From the Paper "Such a large portion of the probation office's budget goes toward substance treatment. However, probation officers also work closely with the offenders' families. No services are provided to them. Many of the wives, husbands, and children of the offenders would benefit from counseling services at a reduced cost. Such services might help them understand the addiction issues their family member faces. This officer has seen a lot of family members be affected by an offender's use of a controlled substance. Often they do not understand what is going on or why the offender would choose to use an illicit substance upon release from incarceration. Any services that would be able to be provided to them may be beneficial for the offender in the long run."
This paper discusses that surveys have shown that domestic violence (DV), which is a major problem in the U.S., is strongly related to alcohol and drug abuse.
Abstract This paper explains that domestic violence, when it includes not just the drugalcohol but also other mind-altering drugs, can be extremely vicious. The author points out that one of the most frequent and verifiable links to understanding DV is the cultural dynamics of individuals in the low-income bracket where violence is used as a strategy in conflict. The paper explores Sweden's anti-violence, alcohol-intervention campaign, which entails training in responsible beverage service for bartenders, enforcement of existing alcohol laws in bars, promotional posters in beverage retail stores, and a massive media campaign, as a model for the U.S.
Table of Contents
Statement of the Problem
Introduction / Thesis
Alcohol/Drug-related Family Violence Does Not Occur in a Social Vacuum
Present Realities and Statistics
What Does Alcohol Actually Do to the Individual and to the Brain?
Victim Treatment, Possible Solutions and Remedies
Conclusion
From the Paper "The fundamental difficulty with respect to studying DV, Jewkes asserts, is that "evidence for causation of intimate partner violence is weak, when assessed with epidemiological criteria" [since] diseases usually have a biological basis and occur within a social context, but intimate partner violence is entirely a product of its social context.? And, Jewkes adds, DV is often a "feature of sexual relationships or thwarted sexual relationships"? Alcohol, she concludes, is a contributor to intimate violence by both reducing inhibitions, and providing "social space" for "punishment"."
Abstract This paper looks at drug and alcohol use and abuse in America, and the barriers to obtaining treatment for addicts. The writer cites the latest statistics (2003) on drug and alcohol use in the U.S. The writer also refers to some studies which try to explain why people do not seek treatment.
From the Paper "Drugs and alcohol are major problems in the United States particularly among the youth of this country ... "
Abstract This paper analyzes the health issues of alcohol and substance addiction. It expands on the use of alcohol and substance for coping and self-medication, as explained by the Breakaway program. The author explains that there is extensive research to support the Breakaway program and the early interventions it uses. The paper also explores the theoretical base which underlies the program.
From the Paper "The health issue to be analyzed is alcohol and substance addiction; specifically, as defined by the Breakaway program, the issue is alcohol and substance use which are used for coping and self-medication. There is extensive research to support the Breakaway program and the early interventions it uses. However, when it is considered just how many areas of health are involved in the program and the large number of issues, the question is outstanding as to what theoretical base underlies the program. Theory is never mentioned, and this is the gap that must be addressed if the program is to have full effectiveness. The rationale for analysis is the controversy and ..."
Abstract This paper briefly explores the symptoms and treatment of alcoholism.
From the Paper "Some common signs of alcoholism in the early stages are constant drinking for relief of personal problems, an increase in a person's tolerance for alcohol, onset of memory lapses while drinking, and an urgent longing for the first drink. A physical dependence first appears with early morning tremors and agitation that require a drink for relief. As an alcoholic progresses into the late stages, drinking bouts are usually very frequent. There is an acute withdrawal syndrome when drinking ceases. This includes tremors, hallucinations, confusion, and rapid heartbeat (Winter). ? Nearly one-fourth of all persons admitted to general hospitals have alcohol problems (sic) are undiagnosed alcoholics being treated for their consequences of their drinking? ("Alcoholism and Alcohol"). "
Abstract In this article the writer examines the case of Thomas User, a drug user who has twice violated the terms of his probation by relapsing into drug use. The paper argues against incarceration but suggests that, because Mr. User cannot be trusted to monitor himself, he should be placed in a half-way house environment where he can receive supervision from others. Beyond that, the writer discusses that this environment will control who Mr. User sees, will make sure that he attends his counseling for his substance abuse problem, and will allow him to receive around-the-clock support from skilled professionals.
From the Paper "Supervision in Probation and Parole: the case of Thomas User. Regrettably, narcotics use and narcotics distribution has become a very pervasive problem in our contemporary society. The following paper will examine the case of a man who became entwined in the narcotics web and who compounded his difficulties by breaching the terms of his probation. The following paper will argue that the best way of dealing with the matter is to tighten up the conditions of Thomas User's probation via adding more conditions to his probation. Among these, it may be advisable for the Probation Officer to place Thomas in a half-way home where he can be carefully monitored and where his whereabouts will be constantly known to professional staff trained to help men like him overcome their problems with substance abuse. With this in mind, it is to a discussion of Thomas that this paper now turns."
Abstract This paper examines Santa Ana's effectiveness in reducing the crime rate of parolees that have been released. The paper first describes the guidelines established that regulated the number and location of new liquor licenses issued after a study was released that indicated that crime rates were linked to establishments selling alcohol. The paper then relates that the Santa Ana department has also sought to work more closely with other governmental agencies outside the city and has enacted programs and used resources to treat 'at-risk' youth and rising vehicle theft. The paper shows how the parole system's interconnection with the community offers security to the parolee and provides more resources to help them stay away from crime and become a part of the community.
From the Paper "There are many factors that go into being a good parole officer. Not the least of which is patience. Officers must be highly educated, well connected to links in the community, very well organized, compassionate and yet authoritarian (1). The job we as a society has asked of the men and women of the Santa Ana Parole Office is nothing short of a miracle. Most of the time parole officers are over worked and under funded and yet we as a society demand that they watch over thousands of parolees to insure our safety. Japan takes a very different societal view of this process than we do. They have a huge volunteer force that helps those released from prison stay connected with their community.(3) They have a ratio of almost 2:1 parolee to officer but their officers are normal members of the community that volunteer their time to help."
Tags: crime, alcohol, licenses, programs, community
Abstract An in-depth look at prison sentencing and allocation of parole. The author argues that life sentencing in the U.S. court system is unfair and that majority of life term prisoners are first time prisoners that receive life sentence due to their involvement with drugs. In effect prisons become full and more dangerous criminals are given parole as they don't sit for life sentences. The author further discusses the effects of this on tax-payers and on society in general.
From the Paper "Imagine receiving a 25-year prison sentence with no possible chance of parole. There is not even a way the sentence can be reduced from the start. For repeat offenders, this is becoming common in the American criminal justice system. Now imagine it is the first offence, and yet there is still a 25-year to life sentence imposed. This situation is quite common in many states, i.e. Michigan. The question must be asked: Are mandatory minimum sentences in drug offences truly just in today's society? Sentences like these are unfair to many of those convicted under them. Mandatory minimum sentences have been filling American prison systems with first-time, non-violent offenders, the majority of which are drug offenders. Since these sentences cannot be reduced, room has to be made for all of the incoming prisoners. In order for the room to be made, violent offenders are usually released early. Not only are these sentences unfair to the offenders, but also because of the extreme sentences, they are costly to the American taxpayer."
This paper focuses on two specific juvenile rehabilitation and probation programs and the manner in which they treat and deal with minors convicted of crimes.
Abstract This paper delves into the similarities and differences in terms of services and treatments offered at the Lehigh County Juvenile Probation Department and the Cook County Juvenile Probation Department. This paper examines the manner in which both programs hold the convicted minors responsible for their actions. This paper discusses each program's style and method for developing and instilling positive life skills in which the minor in question is then able to become a productive member of society. This paper details the mission statement of each program and the manner in which these goals are obtained. The writer contends and explains why the current treatments and programs offered at both facilities need to be altered and improved upon to keep up with the constantly changing face of juvenile crimes in America.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Lehigh County Juvenile Probation Department
The Cook County Juvenile Probation Department
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "This juvenile probation department of Cook County, made up of the city of Chicago and its outlying metropolitan areas, is very similar to that of Lehigh County in many ways, especially in relation to aiming for a "balanced and restorative justice" and to hold offenders accountable for their illegal conduct which, it is hoped, will help them "to develop positive life skills to enable them to become productive members of the community." But unlike Lehigh County, Cook County, on its website, provides a mission statement consisting of the aim to recognize the welfare of all children and their families based on public safety; it also is committed to "providing the guidance, structure and services needed by every child under its supervision." Thus, both of these juvenile probation departments have very similar goals, namely, to protect society from repeat offenders while providing equal and fair justice to the offenders, due to their age and, at times, negative social positions."
Abstract This paper explains the weaknesses of the American judicial system where drug addicts and dealers are trialed and punished but within a matter of weeks are out on the street again, often being rearrested before their parole is up. The writer looks at the new system which has been instituted in order to avoid this occurance - namely "drug courts". It explains what this system is - a unique court system for drug related crimes - and how, through this system, the courts hope to put an end to the vicious cycle of arrrests and convictions, with no purpose.
From the Paper "For the past several decades, drug use has had an overwhelming effect upon the American justice system, with drug and drug-related crime being the most common offense in almost every community (Drug Strategies, 1996). Beyond the troubling ability of these problems to fill prisons to capacity, the traditional judicial system seemed to have no deterrent effect on these crimes (Drug and Crime Facts, 1994). A disturbing "revolving door" pattern had emerged, with drug offenders moving through the system in a predictable pattern of arrest, prosecution, conviction, incarceration, and release. In a few weeks, sometimes only a few days, the same person was back in the system again, arrested for drug possession or a drug-related crime (National Association of Drug Court Professionals [NADCP], 1997). A particularly difficult problem faced by the system was the growing use of crack cocaine in the 1980s (Miller & Gold, 1994). The legislature passed tougher laws imposing longer sentences, such as the Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 and the Anti-Drug Abuse Acts of 1986 and 1988, and the nation struggled to find a solution for its drug and crime problem ("The Effective National Drug Control Strategy," 1999)."
Abstract This paper discusses in detail the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol on the human brain and how those effects play a role in the overall psychological constitution of the user/addict. The topics included in this paper include a brief yet detailed overview of substance dependence in conjunction with the evidence for psychological dependence as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-IV and other pertinent scientific sources. In addition, a number of recommendations for future research on the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol are discussed at the conclusion of this paper.
From the Paper "The study of the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol on the human brain, as compared to other medical conditions, is relatively new in the field of medical research. Only within the last fifty years or so has the medical community focused on how drugs and alcohol affect the human brain and the conditions that arise from prolonged abuse of the various associated substances. As Dent J. Yerbury points out, "literally hundreds of substances cross the brain barrier to influence human behavior and psychology" (June,1986), especially those connected to substance abuse. Reflecting those substances that are most widely abused and that cause the most significant problems to the abuser, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM--IV) has divided the universe of substances into eleven specific drug classes--alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, caffeine, cannabis (marijuana), hallucinogens, inhalants, nicotine, opioids, phencyclidine, and sedatives. Most recently, one other category has been included for less commonly abused substances, being over-the-counter medications."
Abstract The paper explains that nearly two-thirds of all American youth try an illegal drug before they finish high school. The writer states that the juveniles most frequently driven to prostitution are young girls trying to escape abusive situations. The writer reviews literature written on the topics of juvenile drug abuse and prostitution. The writer suggests that more research needs to be done regarding these teenage issues and details specific topics for that research. The paper expresses the importance of making contacts by handing out literature to the public. In conclusion, the writer suggests outreach programs in which the emphasis lies not only on knowledge about safer drug use and safer sex but also on attitude, social standards and self-efficacy. Table Of Contents Importance of Study Introduction Identifying Juveniles in Danger Identifying Illusionary Sources About Prostitution Review of Literature 1. Tap 11: Treatment for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse: Opportunities for Coordination; Special Populations: Prostitutes 2. Blume (1992) Summarizes Some of the Differences in Chemical Dependency in Women When Compared with Men 3. Juveniles: Schinke, Botvin & Orlandi, 1991 4. The Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia (CASA) Released a Study Oct. 27, 1994 5. A Methodological Analysis of the Sexual Behavior NORC University of Chicago, February, 1992 6. The Relationship Between Cocaine Use, Drug Sales, and Other Delinquency Among a Cohort of High-Risk Youths Over Time, 1994 7. Teen Prostitution, Marie Cugini, Advocates for Children College Park Scholars University of Maryland, College Park 9. Breaking The Cycle A Developmental Model for the Assessment and Treatment of Adolescents with Alcohol and Other Drug Problems, By Leslie Acoca, M.A., M.F.C.C. 10. McKeganey et al, 1990, Green et al, 1993. Gossop et al (1994) Interviewed 51 Women Drug Using Prostitutes Basis for Discussion Research Design Making Contacts Limitations References Bibliography
From the Paper "Juveniles are most frequently driven to prostitution in order to escape abusive situations. These young girls feel they have no choice. In addition, laws designed to protect children from sexual abuse are not applied to juvenile prostitutes. The following case history suggests that a number of juveniles engaged in prostitution grew up in abusive and/or neglectful homes, a fragile self esteem and limited resources lead some girls believe they had no other choice but to enter the world of prostitution. "Repeatedly myths and illusions about prostitution are built on misinformation and fantasy of sexuality that are promoted through movies, TV, video tapes and printed materials including pornography. These may entice naive young teens into prostitution through false promises of glamour and riches. In reality, juvenile prostitutes suffer pain humiliation and degradation at the hands of their pimps and customers. They are susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies. Most are controlled by pimps who care first about how much money they get. Kids involved in prostitution frequently experience beatings, sado-masochistic treatment, and worse."
Abstract The paper defines gateway drugs as those which could open the doors to illicit drugs like hallucinogens, marijuana, cocaine, etc. The paper describes the discussions on whether alcohol and tobacco use among teenagers leads to marijuana use and shows that the pros and cons may vary but it denied that the proponents of the "gateway theory" do have a point. There are others who argue that the facts and figures do not corroborate this aspect, yet it still can be said that the teenager who experiments with tobacco and alcohol often proceeds to illicit drugs at a later stage. The paper concludes that it is ultimately the task of parents and society as a whole to ensure that children do not use drugs.
From the Paper "How often have we heard cases of teenagers shooting down their classmates in broad daylight, resorting to cold-blooded murder for no apparent reason! It is not even necessary that they would have showed any signs of delinquency in the past. What could have prompted them to such gory acts? The reasons can by many, but nothing that family support and affection could not have prevented. Or even for that matter, a friend in school who is willing to listen. Very rarely are such cases medically triggered, as no one is born a criminal. A sad aspect is that a large number of suicides too occur, as there is no one to hear the agonizing cries of a stressed out soul. A teenager with, what he surmises are insurmountable problems."
Tags: National, Institute, of, Drug, Abuse, National, Household, Policy, on, Drug, Abuse, National, Drug, Control, Policy
Abstract This paper explains that, although officially around for only the last thirty years, the war on drugs has been waged for the last century through various laws to decrease the use and circulation of drugs in the United States. The author points out that these prohibition laws have been aimed at everything from alcohol to marijuana; however, such laws continue to fail to change the flow of drugs into and throughout the country. The paper suggest that, as the costs of funding the war on drugs rises, there is a need for a different approach such as the legalization of the targeted drugs, similar to the repeal of the Twenty-First Amendment, which again legalized alcohol in the United States. The paper includes several quotations.
From the Paper "The current laws essentially have no affect on a person's experimentation with drugs. Despite school anti-drug programs and campaigns, "about half of the students in the United States in 1995 tried an illegal drug before they graduated from high school" (Boaz). One would think that the present punishments for drug use or distribution would hinder teenage experimentation with these drugs. But the statistics show that this has little to no effect. Ironically, the things that are illegal seem to be the easiest to come by these days."
Abstract The paper discusses the article; "Survey reveals public misperception about addiction treatment availability," in which the anonymous author reports on a survey commissioned by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence New Jersey (NCADD NJ) and conducted by the Rutgers University-affiliated Eagleton Institute's Center of Public Interest Polling. This survey sampled views across the state of New Jersey on alcohol and other drug addiction.
From the Paper "The poll showed that an overwhelming majority saw alcoholism and drug addiction as major problems, but also found that actual knowledge of the issue was often wrong, with people believing there was more assistance available to addicts than is the case. Two-thirds of those surveyed thought that they could easily find assistance if they had an alcohol or drug problem, though other evidence shows how difficult it is to get such treatment in New Jersey."
