The Effects Of Alcohol And Drug Abuse On Criminal Activities

Discussion: Whilst many theorists have differing views on whether or not alcohol and drug abuse is related to criminal activities, there are however a variety of preventative and intervention methods known commonly as ‘harm reduction’. This theory aims to assist in society’s responses in how we intervene when it comes to drug abusers as well as how the use of drug taking harms society itself. Such designed strategies aim to reduce and eventually stop substance abuse. Harm reduction methods can come in the form of intervention programmes (such as rehabilitation programmes), or access to health clinics and support groups that include needle exchange services for drug injectors and these aim to lessen the after effects that are linked with substance abuse and criminal activities. According to Newcombe, R. (1992), Harm Reduction can be defined as ‘a term that defines policies, programmes, services and actions that work to reduce the health, social and economic harm’, as well as ‘to reduce the harms to individuals, communities and society’. Many local and international organisations can attest to and be evidence of the usefulness of the harm reduction theories (each having their own or similar approaches). Some of these organisations include Drugscope – a popular UK charity, NTA – National Treatment Agency (for Substance Misuse), and also CCSA – The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. The CCSA has a 4 step approach in how to deal with reducing harm for drug misusers and society.Show MoreRelatedThe Relationship Between Substance Abuse and Crime Essay1268 Words   |  6 Pagesâ€Å"Drugs and Alcohol abuse†, are phrases we hear commonly on the radio, television or in discussions of social problems. 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