Arguments for legalizing soft drugs such as marijuana are that legalization carries fewer consequences for society than criminalization, since there is little scientific evidence that marijuana is a dangerous drug. There are few studies concerned with arguments for the legalizing of hard drugs such as cocaine and heroin. A Dutch study by Engelman (1989) argues that drug abuse is primarily a health problem and should be handled through public health strategies rather than criminal justice processing. Some have argued for the gradual legalization of hard drugs, coupled with formal and informal social structures designed to control use. Arguments for not legalizing soft or hard drugs are that it would increase drug use and consequent health and economic costs, since the drugs are addictive. Research into the diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse in a therapeutic community provides support for the effectiveness of individual counseling; group confrontation therapy; and education to increase achievement, self-esteem, good nutrition, and physical exercise. A 16-item bibliography