Drug Use and Abuse: A Comprehensive Introduction

In his powerful new Seventh Edition of DRUG USE AND ABUSE: A COMPREHENSIVE INTRODUCTION, Dr. Howard Abadinsky draws from the latest available data as he explores all aspects of the drug and alcohol abuse issue. The book's thorough coverage includes the history of drugs, the impact on society, the pharmacological impact of drugs on the body, policy implications, the criminal justice system response, drug business, drug law enforcement, theories of use, and — of course — the effects, treatment, and prevention of abuse. Reports on the latest data on drug concerns provide further insight into alcohol and explore the abuse of additional substances such as ?club drugs?, inhalants, herbal stimulants, and designer drugs. The major drugs are arranged into depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, and cannabis.

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A textbook in which Abadinsky (Saint Xavier U., Chicago) offers students a broad introduction to drug abuse policy by examining drug history; biological, psychological, and sociological explanations; the various types of treatment and prevention program; the business of drugs; and drug laws and law enforcement. He does not mention dates for the earlier editions, but says the fourth is updated with new aspects, such as the emerging approach of harm reduction; he has also reorganized it into 14 chapters using a syllabus format. He includes a glossary without pronunciation guides. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Howard Abadinsky, a Professor in Criminal Justice & Legal Studies at St. John's University, is a widely respected author and researcher in the criminal justice field. Prior to his academic career, Dr. Abadinsky served as an inspector for the Cook County Sheriff's Office for eight years and as a New York State parole officer for 15 years. He is the author of several books, including ORGANIZED CRIME, 8e. Dr. Abadinsky received his master's degree from the Fordham University School of Social Service and a Ph.D. in sociology from New York University.