The Face of Social Suffering: The Life History of a Street Drug Addict

"This research-based, theory-driven account of the changing underground world of drug use and associated health effects covers the essential ground in a brisk, authoritative fashion. After a thorough outline of the nature and history of drug use dynamics, the author assesses the role of youth in new drug use practices, the impact of illicit drug distribution and the War on Drugs, and the public health risks of new trends in drug use behavior." "The volume provides an up-close account of the social worlds of drug sellers and users and the processes of change in patterns of drug consumption. Additionally, it considers mechanisms for effective public health response to emergent health risks associated with changing drug use patterns. Because Merrill Singer carefully explains all technological terms, uses clarifying examples, and avoids jargon, readers will walk away from this volume with a deeper grasp of this social problem; with appreciation for how change figures into drug use practices; and with knowledge of key social, cultural, political-economic, criminal justice, and health factors."--BOOK JACKET.