Relationship Between Consumption Patterns of Alcohol, Tobacco, Prescribed and Illegal Drugs and Harmful Consequences (From Alcohol and Drugs: Research and Policy, P 110-124, 1990, Martin Plant, Cees Goos, et al., eds. -- See NCJ-129672)

• NCJ Number: 129683
• Author(s): A Kokkevi; C Stefanis
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 15 pages
• Sale Source: University of Edinburgh Press
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This analysis of two surveys that examined epidemiological aspects of drug abuse in Greece concludes that data obtained through different research methods are equally reliable and valid, provided that each method is properly designed to meet research aims and to suit the characteristics of the study group and local or national conditions.

Abstract

One study used a sample of 11,058 members of a school population; the other gathered data from 79 imprisoned drug offenders and a matched group of 57 imprisoned non-drug offenders. The first study used anonymous, self-administered questionnaires, while the second gathered data through structured interviews conducted by mental health professionals. Thus, one population was in an early stage of drug use and the other in an advanced stage. The findings from both population groups indicated a progressively heavier consumption of drugs such as marijuana and alcohol as individuals became increasingly involved in the use of drugs such as cocaine and opiates. Results also showed that problems affecting the physical and mental health as well as social functioning of imprisoned drug offenders were also evident among student drug abusers, especially those who had used heroin. Findings showed the usefulness of different methods, particularly if they are chosen with the research objectives in mind. Figures, tables, and 22 references