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Drugs in prison: a break in the pathway
Chantal Plourde1, Serge Brochu
1International Center for Comparative Criminology, University of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. chantal.plourde@umontreal.ca
Substance Use & Misuse
|February 19, 2002
Summary
This study investigated inmate drug use in Canadian prisons, revealing significant changes in substances used, frequency, and motivations. Understanding these patterns is crucial for correctional health services.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Offender substance use is a significant concern within correctional systems.
- Limited research exists on drug use patterns specifically during incarceration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and describe patterns of psychoactive substance use among inmates during imprisonment.
- To identify changes in substance use, motivations, and psychological perceptions within correctional facilities.
Main Methods:
- A random sample of 317 inmates from 10 Canadian penitentiaries were interviewed.
- Self-reported questionnaires were administered in 1999 to gather data on drug use.
Main Results:
- The study identified notable changes in the types of substances inmates used.
- Frequency of use, motivations for drug consumption, and inmates' psychological states during intoxication were also significantly altered.
- Data revealed diverse patterns in inmate substance use during incarceration.
Conclusions:
- Inmate drug use presents complex challenges within correctional settings.
- Further research is needed to address the specific patterns and motivations identified in this study to inform interventions.