Reference no: EM132915122

Abuse of alcohol and other drugs continues to be a major concern for society in general and for social workers and other social service providers in particular. Addiction thrives where poverty and racism are most prevalent. Substance abuse exacerbates the original problems in a vicious cycle that prematurely ends far too many lives and irreparably damages others. Present efforts to control AOD problems lean toward punishment, a bias that has had mixed results, some of them profoundly negative. Even when our national policies follow the drug sources internationally, the efforts at eradication lean toward punishment. There are a number of alternative strategies, and for many decades social work has been at the forefront in exploring and using them. The practical experience of service providers who fight addiction in the trenches suggests that a shift in focus and funding toward prevention and treatment could go a long way toward reducing the incidence of drug and alcohol abuse.

What are some thoughts on the chapter on substance abuse? Was this area of social work of interest? What are some things society should do against drug addiction? Should we continue to punish or treat people as if they are sick? Is this a criminal justice problem or a public health problem? Have you or loved ones dealt with any of these issues?