Narcotic addiction in two Asian cultures: A comparison and analysis
Author(s):
Westermeyer, Joseph
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Drug And Alcohol Dependence, Volume 2, Issue 4 (1977-07). pp. 273-285.
Language:
English
Abstract:
Studied the effects of open access to narcotic drugs on 2 ethnic groups: The Hmong (or Meo), a tribal group with access to opium in their homes; and the Lao, a peasant people with more limited access, usually in opium dens ( Ns?=?81 and 321, respectively). Of 15 demographic and clinical (e.g., duration of preaddictive use, duration of addiction, and type of narcotic drug) variables studied, 10 showed significant differences between the 2 cultures. Eight of the 10 could be readily accounted for by differences in drug availability. Only 2 diferences (i.e., type of work and proximity of relatives) could be ascribed to socioecologic factors not related to drug availability. Similarities between the 2 groups appeared to be due to pharmacologic effects of narcotic addiction and low social opprobrium toward addiction in both cultures. Open availability of narcotic drugs appeared to favor (a) a greater proportion of female addicts, (b) younger age of opiate usage and addiction, (c) use of the more intoxicating route of administration, (d) earlier onset of problems related to addiction, and (e) shorter duration of addiction before seeking treatment. (17 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)