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Heroin as Evil: Ecstasy Users' Perceptions About Heroin

NCJ Number
189076
Journal
Drugs: Education, Prevention, and Policy Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: May 2001 Pages: 177-189
Author(s)
Karen McElrath; Kieran McEvoy
Editor(s)
Betsy Thom
Date Published
May 2001
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This paper explored Ecstasy users’ in Northern Ireland perceptions about heroin, heroin users and injection, and the ways in which drug users employ comparative indicators, such as heroin, to frame and understand their own usage.
Abstract
This study examined non-opiate drug users view of heroin and heroin users. It examined this issue in greater detail, from previous studies, through the analysis of Ecstasy users’ perceptions about heroin, heroin users and injectors. The study is based on 98 in-depth interviews with current or former Ecstasy users in Northern Ireland. Results revealed the following: (1) users of Ecstasy were much more likely to view their own drug use in recreational terms; (2) a number of Ecstasy users voiced negative images about heroin and injection; (3) the frequency of use was not related to attitudes about heroin; (4) several respondents appeared to distance themselves from heroin users and have negative perceptions due to the method of consuming the drug (injection) rather than the drug itself; (5) stereotypes and generalizations about injectors were common and hypocritical; and (6) some respondents expressed a linkage between heroin use and crime. The study suggested future research focus on the reasons that perceptions about heroin change for some drug users who eventually initiate heroin use or injection, despite having once held negative views. Tables and references

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