Disability and illicit drug use: an application of labeling theory

Abstract

Applying the concept of "secondary deviance" from Labeling Theory, this study hypothesizes that perceptions of disability labeling are relevant to individuals' acceptance of disability. Such reactions may lead to an entitlement attitude toward substance use and encourage further deviant activities such as illicit drug use. The findings from our analyses tend to confirm our expectations that perceived discrimination and acceptance of disability play important roles in illicit drug use by persons with disabilities. The present study also suggests that perceived discrimination against persons with disabilities is significantly associated with disability acceptance, and, in turn, indirectly related to illicit drug use attitudes and practice. In addition, severe disability conditions, such as the presence of multiple disabilities, are important factors in predicting negative reactions to labeling that might result in drug abuse. This study does not support all elements of the labeling perspective, but it suggests that the labeling approach provides a useful framework for understanding the relationships between disability and substance abuse.