The link between identity and crime for the heroin addict in methadone treatment

In this paper we examine the relationship between identity and involvement in crime for the heroin addict enrolled in methadone treatment. We hypothesize that crime during treatment is related to the maintenance of an identity appropriate to the role of the active street hustler. Data derive from interviews with addicts in methadone treatment in the New York City area. The major finding is that addicts in methadone treatment who had street-oriented identities were more likely than those with model patient-based identities to be involved in crime, particularly property crime. The limitations and implications of this research are discussed.