Knowing Addicts Well Can Lead to Better Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Abuse of illegal substances impoverishes thousands of lives every year. The present study aims to glean an in-depth understanding of the demographic characteristics of substance abusers in Cyprus. The data were collected from prisoner and non-prisoner addicts and analyzed using the chi squire statistical procedure. The results showed that prisoner addicts had dysfunctional familial relationships, while lower socio-economic status was shown to have an adverse effect exacerbating illegal drug use. Moreover, easy access to drugs was shown to be a causal factor for imprisonment of addicts. These findings suggest a need for more effective interventions to help addicts avoid illegal drugs and to live a productive life. It can be concluded that the involvement of government services in intervention strategies is vital and socio demographic factors is a significant consideration for prevention strategies to help addicts enhance the quality of their lives.