NCJ Number
209580
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 40 Issue: 4 Dated: 2005 Pages: 563-571
Date Published
2005
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This pilot study used a qualitative approach to examine relevant beliefs and norms associated with initiation into and perceived addiction related to the use of cigarettes or marijuana sticks laced with embalming fluid and PCP ("fry") among Houston (Texas) juveniles.
Abstract
Sample members were recruited from two large juvenile drug treatment facilities (one outpatient and one inpatient). Those included in the study had to be 12 to 21 years old and current fry users. Thirty-eight youth (82 percent male) who met these criteria agreed to participate in the study. Individual interviews and focus groups were used to obtain information on the juveniles' initiation into and subsequent use of fry, beliefs about its addictive properties, and the dangers it might pose to self and others. The study found that friends or family members were most often present during their respondents' initial use of fry and that curiosity was the initial motivation for its use. Most participants stated that addiction to fry could occur as early as initial consumption. The respondents identified people who were addicted to fry by their recurrence of use and by impaired motor skills and eccentric behavior. Fry use was perceived by participants to have extremely dangerous consequences for users as well as society. They believed that users have impaired motor skills, hallucinations, long-term mental health disorders, irrational behavior, paranoia, violent behavior, and a relaxation of inhibitions against theft. Suggestions for future research are offered. 2 tables and 9 references