The Role of Probation in Narcotics Addiction

Abstract

Probation Departments handle the bulk of narcotic addiction cases and discover the presence of drug addiction in a substantial number of cases which might otherwise pass undetected. The task of recommending a suitable disposition is complicated by the fact that by sentence day withdrawal symptoms usually have completely vanished, which lend an appearance of validity to the defendant's claim that he is cured. The narcotic addict has been described as a symptom of social failure and this implies that both the individual and society have failed. The presence of drugs is not in itself the genesis of the user's real maladjustment. Most narcotic drug addicts are emotionally immature, childlike persons, who have never made a proper adjustment to the problem of living. Many of them were social problems before they became addicts and the makeup of others points to the likelihood of further antisocial behavior in the future even if they had not become addicts. It is erroneously believed that drugs in themselves produce antisocial behavior. Actually drugs soothe abnormal impulses and create a parasitical state. Testimony at public hearings, which reveal that 85 percent of treated patients eventually returned to drugs is discouraging. About 30 percent of adult addicts commenced using drugs in their teens. This, plus the spectacular recent rise in teenage use of narcotics, should spur us to positive and decisive activity. The best results will be obtained with those whose social adjustment has been fair until addiction. Withdrawal is the first and least important step in treatment. The real problem is ridding the addict of the habit permanently. Withdrawal is external, whereas change is needed in the internal life of the subject. The most important and difficult aspect of treatment is the development of a desire and an ability to live without drugs. Among numerous factors accounting for relatively favorable adjustments have been post-institutional planning and supervision in the community. The most successful treatment and program includes adequate parole supervision for a period of three years following discharge from a hospital or institution, preferably by a probation or parole officer. In any program supervision will be a sine qua non. Sincere addicts will lean hard on their probation officers. Unless we recognize basic dependent needs, the subject has no alternative but to resort to drugs as a supporting substitute. The most heavily weighted factor towards success is insight. Does the offender contend that the use of drugs is harmful and believe that the legal