DRUG-TAKERS IN AN ENGLISH TOWN

Abstract

The differences between drug-takers in the community have seldom been examined in depth. In this study of non-institutionalised individuals, those who had injected drugs are compared with those who had not. Primarily an observation study, this involved extensive fieldwork during which information about life-styles and drug use was collected. In addition a study group of 200 respondents were interviewed to gather detailed biographical information. Those interviewed and observed were a varied group, and did not conform to any single stereotype. The injectors were distinctive in several respects, and it is concluded that, in comparison with non-injectors, they were an “extreme” and deviant group. The injectors were more likely than other drug-takers to have disturbed biographies and to be deeply involved with the life-style of the drug scene. The evidence of this study suggests that the injector, far from being typical of those within the drug scene, is stigmatised by, as well as being far more “deviant” than, other drug-takers.