Abstract
The policies of the “war on drugs” have resulted in mass incarceration and access barriers for substance use disorder treatments and harm reduction services. Contrary to common depictions of drug use as a byproduct of poor character, or innate immorality, research shows that substance use (and substance use disorders) often originate from trauma, social alienation, and a lack of social supports. By addressing the root of substance use, rather than criminalizing individuals, society will be better equipped to address the public health crisis of persistently high rates of drug-related disease and death.
Primary Discipline of Presentation
Muskie School of Public Service
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Faculty Mentor
Erika Ziller, PhD
Open Access?
1
Drug Criminalization in the US: Unintended consequences and policy alternatives
The policies of the “war on drugs” have resulted in mass incarceration and access barriers for substance use disorder treatments and harm reduction services. Contrary to common depictions of drug use as a byproduct of poor character, or innate immorality, research shows that substance use (and substance use disorders) often originate from trauma, social alienation, and a lack of social supports. By addressing the root of substance use, rather than criminalizing individuals, society will be better equipped to address the public health crisis of persistently high rates of drug-related disease and death.
