Active Drug Users as Social Change Agents: Some Ethical Dimensions

Abstract

Active drug users-whom I here roughly categorize as habituated, addicted, or dependent (HAD) users who are not currently inclined to abandon their use of such drugs 1 -may desire individually or collectively to assert themselves in the wider social world of work and social policy. Drug-dependent individuals may seek work in harm reduction centers or as custodians, accountants, or doctors. Activist drug user groups may work for legislative change in drug-related policies and social provisions for drug users, such as support groups, injecting rooms, and needle and syringe exchange programs. What ethical challenges does this pose? APPENDIX 2: COMMENTARIES Researchers seek consistency, reliability, and control; whereas the stereotype of drug users is that of inconsistent, unreliable, and out of control. On the basis of drug use treatment and medical models, research programs that in-volve drug users are often designed to control and dictate the behaviors of drug users. This system leads to interactions that perpetuate stereotypes and narrowly prescribed social roles. Moreover, such programs often focus on and Subst Use Misuse Downloaded from informahealthcare.com by University of Ulster at Jordanstown on 11/05/14 For personal use only.

Public opinion and drug policy in Australia: Engaging the ‘affected community’

“…For example, there are a number of government‐funded Australian drug user organisations. The stigmatisation and criminalisation of drug use is a complex barrier but should not disqualify people who use drugs from participation , especially as the broader criminological literature has demonstrated the need for offenders’ views to be heard in policy and practice (e.g. ).…”