Saint Leo University SSC 328: Drugs, Society, And Human Beha ✓ Solved

Saint Leo University SSC 328: Drugs, Society, and Human Behavior

This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the nature of commonly used psychoactive substances and their interaction with the human nervous system. Included are the history and patterns of their use, as well as the medical, legal, psychological, and sociological consequences of their abuse. Current practices and strategies for drug education and treatment are covered. There are numerous drugs that are utilized within our society today. Some are found predominately within the legitimate framework of medical practice, and others are designed solely for recreational and experimental purposes.

Students will submit a research paper on a drug with the potential for abuse or misuse. The paper will be due by Sunday 11:59 PM EST/EDT of Module 7. For complete instructions, review the Research Paper Guidelines located in the Resources section of the course menu.

Students are expected to adhere to the course syllabus and schedule. It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of what is happening in the class.

Paper For Above Instructions

The relationship between drug use and society is a complex and multifaceted issue that spans cultural, legal, and psychological dimensions. This paper examines methamphetamine—a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Methamphetamine use has been on the rise over the past decades, leading to significant concerns about public health, safety, and the effectiveness of current regulations and treatment options.

Understanding Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a potent central nervous system stimulant that affects the brain's pleasure centers. Its chemical structure is related to amphetamine, which is prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. However, methamphetamine differs in its effects, being more potent and addictive (O'Reilly et al., 2019).

The drug’s production typically involves the chemical manipulation of over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine. Meth can be ingested in various ways, including smoking, snorting, injecting, or swallowing, leading to varying degrees of effect and potential for abuse (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2021).

Impact on Society

The societal implications of methamphetamine use are profound. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2021) reports that methamphetamine addiction leads to severe health consequences, including increased risk for infectious diseases, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular complications. Moreover, the societal cost manifests in increased crime rates, family disintegration, and economic burdens on healthcare systems.

Substance abuse, including meth, often correlates with higher rates of criminal behavior, raising concerns about public safety and an effective legal framework for addressing addiction. The cycle of addiction can create a feedback loop, where individuals engaged in criminal behaviors in pursuit of the drug face legal repercussions that further entrench them in systems of substance use (Bennett et al., 2020).

Current Trends and Patterns

Current trends show a troubling rise in the use of methamphetamine across various demographics, with significant increases noted among both urban and rural populations. The Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 aimed to curb the availability of pseudoephedrine; however, clandestine meth labs continue to emerge, indicating persistent demand and adaptability of drug users and manufacturers (Leukefeld et al., 2019).

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated substance abuse issues. According to a study by the American Medical Association (2021), there has been an alarming increase in substance use and related health complications during this period, highlighting the urgency for robust intervention strategies.

Treatment and Education Strategies

Effective intervention strategies for methamphetamine addiction are critical. Treatment approaches often include behavioral therapies, which focus on modifying the attitudes and behaviors related to drug use (NIDA, 2021). Evidence-based practices such as contingency management and cognitive-behavioral therapy have shown promise in treating individuals with stimulant use disorders.

Moreover, education programs must emphasize harm reduction strategies, including educative initiatives that inform individuals about the risks of methamphetamine, safe practices, and avenues for support. Community-based programs can provide critical referrals to treatment services and resources that facilitate recovery (Bennett et al., 2020).

Conclusion

The interplay between methamphetamine use and societal implications is significant and multifaceted. As the prevalence of this substance continues to rise, there is a critical need for comprehensive policies that address both prevention and treatment. Stakeholders, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and educators, must collaborate to foster environments that promote health and reduce substance abuse risks. Through targeted interventions and education, society can work toward alleviating the burden of methamphetamine and other substance addictions.

References

• American Medical Association. (2021). Substance use disorders and COVID-19.
• Bennett, S. R., Holloway, K., & Joe, D. (2020). Addressing the Methamphetamine Epidemic: A Pharmacological Perspective. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 119, 108118.
• Leukefeld, C. G., Swinson, N. D., & McGhee, D. (2019). Methamphetamine use trends in the United States: An overview. Substance Use & Misuse, 54(3), 420-429.
• NIDA. (2021). Research reports: Methamphetamine. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine
• O'Reilly, G. A., & Montanari, L. (2019). The pharmacology of methamphetamine: An overview. Current Psychiatry Reports, 21(7), 57.