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Adolescent PTSD and developmental consequences of crack dealing
1La Cheim School, Richmond, Calif.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Crack dealing significantly impacts emotionally disturbed adolescents, causing trauma and shaping identity separate from drug use. This violence-driven culture requires targeted interventions in school drug abuse education programs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminology
Background:
- Examining the impact of illicit substance economies on vulnerable youth populations.
- Focusing on emotionally disturbed adolescents within urban environments.
Observation:
- Case examples illustrate the distinct effects of crack dealing versus crack use.
- Adolescents involved in crack dealing face unique psychological stressors.
Findings:
- Crack dealing leads to post-traumatic stress disorder and other emotional disturbances due to associated violence.
- Adolescent identity is profoundly shaped by the culture of violence and firearms linked to drug dealing.
- The consequences of dealing are often separate from, and more severe than, those of mere use.
Implications:
- School-based drug abuse education needs to address the realities of community violence and its psychological toll.
- Interventions should consider the socio-cultural factors influencing adolescent involvement in drug economies.
- Enhanced mental health support is crucial for adolescents exposed to the violence of crack dealing.