Psy 425 - Past and Current Drug Trends Paper

Past and Current Drug Trends Paper

Psy/425

June 3, 2013

Drugs have been a part of our world since the beginning of time. The definition of drugs is a substance taken into the body. This chemical changes the structure of the brain and the functioning of the body. Drugs can be used for medication, recreation, or even for spiritual reasons. In this document past and current drug abuse will be identified. Also the discussion of illegal drugs that are culturally appropriate will be noted. Lastly, we will analyze the social and health issues of addiction and drug abuse in the United States. The goal of this essay is to entertain and inform the audience of drug use in our world today and in our history.

In the past drugs were believed to be created through different plants, mushrooms, and leaves. The coca leave is used in the production of cocaine. In South and Central America hallucinogens have been used in cultures because they were known as having deep spiritual powers. Shamanism is known as a practice among ancient societies. It is also known as Shaman which means healer by plant. This is based upon medical context which include religious rights. (Levinthal 2012). They were grown to create medicine for the ill or injured. There were two men that may be used as an example. In the year of 1796 Edward Jenner created a vaccine for small pox. In 1885 Louis Pasteur produced the rabies vaccine (Levinthal 2012). Over the years these have saved hundreds of lives.

There are also street drugs that were manufactured with a specific goal in mind. Examples of these would be cocaine, crack, PCP, etc. An example in today's society club drugs is very popular. These are drugs that are taken in raves, bars, or all night parties (Levinthal 2012). They mainly come in pills or powder. A well known club drug is Ecstasy. This street drug is known to enhance one's sex drive and keep them awake for hours. The main idea of these drugs is to stay awake, have fun, and have a feeling of euphoria. Drug abuse and addiction is a result and consequence of using illicit drugs (Nadelmann 2007).

We live in a very social environment today. Before 1998 drugs were advertised on television. Cigarettes and beer were publicly announced with views of gaining social recognition, attractiveness, and with no health warnings (Levinthal 2012). Today even though alcohol and cigarettes are no longer advertised they are still seen everywhere. There are drugs throughout the internet, entertainment, and