Items related to Addiction and opiates
Synopsis
This classic study is concerned with addiction to opiate-type drugs and their synthetic equivalents. Lindesmith proposes and systematically elaborates a rational, general theoretical account of the nature of the experiences which generate the addict's characteristic craving for drugs. While this theoretical position has obvious implications for addictions that resemble opiate addiction in that they also involve drugs which produce physical dependence and withdrawal distress, the author does not extend the theory to these other forms of addiction, such as alcoholism.The central theoretical problem is posed by the fact that some persons who experience the effects of opiate-type drugs and use them for a period sufficient to establish physical dependence do not become addicts, while others under what appear to be the same conditions do become addicted. The focus of theoretical attention is on those aspects of addiction which may reasonably he regarded as basic or essential in the sense that they are invariably manifested by all types of addicts regardless of place, time, method of use, social class, and other similar variable circumstances. Lindesmith then makes a brief statement of a view of current public policy concerning addiction in the United States reform which, it is believed, would substantially reduce the evils now associated with addiction and the large illicit traffic in drugs. He interviews approximately fifty addicts over a fairly extended period of time sufficient to establish an informal, friendly relationship of mutual trust.The attempt to account for the differential reactions among drug users requires specification of the circumstances under which physical dependence results in addiction and in the absence of which it does not. It also requires careful consideration of the meaning of "addiction," spelled out in terms of behavior and attitudes characteristic of opiate addicts everywhere. This book strives to understand these aspects of addiction with the ultimate goal of understanding the factors which create its foundations. This classic work has much to say about contemporary addiction.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
About the Author
Alfred R. Lindesmith (1905-1991) was professor of sociology at Indiana University and was one of the first scholars to provide a well-researched account on the subject of addiction. He believed that opiate addiction was based on dramatic shifts of an individual's mental and motivation states.
Review
“Lindesmith is concerned with the opiates, specifically with presenting a theory of addiction; therefore, only passing reference is made to other drugs. Although this is a complz subject, the reader will enjoy and remember Lindesmith’s imaginative and insightful theory, and inimitable style. The author develops his ideas carefully and methodically, and dramatically demolishes current views of opiate addiction.”
—Stanley E. Grupp, American Sociological Review
“It is very pleasant to have this updated reissue from Aldine of Lindesmith’s early monograph.”
—Gilbert Geis, Journal of Health and Social Behavior
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
- PublisherAldine de Gruyter
- Publication date1968
- ISBN 10 0202300773
- ISBN 13 9780202300771
- BindingUnbound
- Number of pages295
(No Available Copies)
Search Books: Create a WantIf you know the book but cannot find it on AbeBooks, we can automatically search for it on your behalf as new inventory is added. If it is added to AbeBooks by one of our member booksellers, we will notify you!
Create a Want
