The Problem of Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teenagers

by | Oct 2, 2023 | Criminology

Prior to beginning work on this assignment, read Chapters 9 and 10 from the required textbook. Select and then define a significant social issue faced by the justice system, evaluate the scope and consequences of the issue, and analyze society’s responses to the issue (including public policies and other less formal responses). Papers should also present a clearly reasoned alternative, supported by scholarly research.

While the following example can be modified to suit your needs, this outline is likely to result in a high-quality Final Paper:

Identify the problem. Be sure to narrow your problem enough to allow a focused examination.
Describe the individual, social, and criminal justice system implications of this problem. Discussion of implications should be supported by accurate research data.
Summarize what experts say about the problem.
Explain what you, as a society, have done to remedy this problem. Consider public policies and other, less formal responses.
Analyze to what extent public policies and other, less formal responses are effective in addressing this problem.
Propose an alternative solution to the problem.
Analyze why the alternative is, or can be, an effective response to the problem. Remember to consider negative consequences of the alternative response.
Conclude with your thoughts about your chosen social problem. This is a good place to include personal opinions, assuming you wish to share them in a research paper.
In short, define a problem, discuss the response, and provide alternative responses to the problem. For example, your problem could be drug use/abuse, with a focus on prescription drug abuse among teenagers.

 

 

Sample Answer

Sample Answer

The Problem of Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teenagers
Introduction
Prescription drug abuse among teenagers has become a significant social issue faced by the justice system. This problem refers to the non-medical use of prescription drugs, such as opioids, stimulants, and sedatives, by individuals who do not have a legitimate medical need for them. It poses serious individual, social, and criminal justice system implications. This paper will examine the scope and consequences of prescription drug abuse among teenagers, analyze society’s responses to the issue, and propose an alternative solution supported by scholarly research.

Implications of Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teenagers
Prescription drug abuse among teenagers has profound implications on various levels. Individually, it can lead to physical and mental health problems, including addiction, overdose, and even death. It can also hinder academic performance, impair cognitive abilities, and contribute to the development of other substance abuse disorders. Socially, prescription drug abuse can strain relationships with family and friends, increase the risk of engaging in risky behaviors, and contribute to criminal activities such as theft or illegal drug trafficking. From a criminal justice system perspective, the illicit acquisition and distribution of prescription drugs fuel a lucrative black market, leading to increased law enforcement efforts and diverting resources away from other areas.

Expert Perspectives on Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teenagers
Experts consistently highlight the severity of prescription drug abuse among teenagers. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prescription drugs are the second most abused category of drugs among teenagers after marijuana. Research shows that availability and accessibility, lack of awareness about the risks associated with prescription drugs, and societal pressures all contribute to this problem. Experts emphasize the need for comprehensive prevention programs, early identification of at-risk individuals, and improved access to treatment and support services.

Society’s Response to Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teenagers
Society has responded to the problem of prescription drug abuse among teenagers through a combination of public policies and less formal responses. Public policies include regulatory measures aimed at reducing the availability of prescription drugs, such as stricter prescribing guidelines, pharmacy monitoring programs, and efforts to educate healthcare professionals about responsible prescribing practices. Additionally, public awareness campaigns have been launched to educate teenagers and their families about the risks of prescription drug abuse. Less formal responses include community-based initiatives, school-based prevention programs, and support groups for affected individuals and their families.

Effectiveness of Public Policies and Less Formal Responses
While public policies and less formal responses have made some progress in addressing prescription drug abuse among teenagers, their effectiveness is limited. Despite regulatory measures, prescription drugs are still easily accessible through diversion and illegal channels. Public awareness campaigns have had mixed results in changing behavior, as adolescents may perceive prescription drugs as safer than illicit substances. Prevention programs face challenges in reaching all teenagers and may not effectively address the complex factors contributing to drug abuse. Treatment and support services often face barriers to access and may lack sufficient resources.

Alternative Solution: Comprehensive Approach to Prevention and Treatment
To address prescription drug abuse among teenagers effectively, a comprehensive approach is needed. This alternative solution involves combining prevention efforts, early intervention strategies, and improved access to evidence-based treatment. Prevention programs should focus on educating teenagers about the risks of prescription drug abuse through school-based initiatives, community outreach, and targeted education campaigns. Early intervention strategies should involve screening and assessment in healthcare settings to identify at-risk individuals and provide appropriate interventions. Additionally, improving access to evidence-based treatment options such as counseling, behavioral therapies, and medication-assisted treatment can help address addiction and support recovery.

Effectiveness of the Alternative Solution
A comprehensive approach that combines prevention, early intervention, and improved access to treatment offers a more promising response to prescription drug abuse among teenagers. By targeting both the individual and societal factors contributing to drug abuse, this approach addresses the root causes of the problem. It recognizes that prevention efforts alone are insufficient without adequate treatment options for those already affected. While implementing this solution may require increased funding and coordination among various stakeholders, research has shown that comprehensive approaches have yielded positive outcomes in reducing substance abuse.

Conclusion
Prescription drug abuse among teenagers is a significant social issue that requires attention from society and the justice system. The implications of this problem on individuals, communities, and the criminal justice system are substantial. While public policies and less formal responses have been implemented, their effectiveness is limited. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines prevention efforts, early intervention strategies, and improved access to evidence-based treatment, society can address the problem more effectively. This alternative solution recognizes the complexities of prescription drug abuse among teenagers and offers a more holistic response that promotes both prevention and recovery.

 

 

 

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