NCJ Number
187257
Journal
Deviant Behavior Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: January-February 2001 Pages: 1-21
Date Published
January 2001
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This study examines the hypothesis that perceptions of disability labeling are relevant to individuals' acceptance of disability.
Abstract
Applying the concept of "secondary deviance" from Labeling Theory, the study hypothesized that perceptions of disability labeling are relevant to individuals' acceptance of disability. Such reactions may lead to an entitlement attitude toward substance use and encourage further deviant activities such as illicit drug use. Findings tend to confirm expectations that perceived discrimination and acceptance of disability play important roles in illicit drug use by persons with disabilities. Perceived discrimination against persons with disabilities was significantly associated with disability acceptance and, in turn, indirectly related to illicit drug use attitudes and practice. In addition, severe disability conditions, such as the presence of multiple disabilities, were important factors in predicting negative reactions to labeling that might result in drug abuse. The article concludes that, while the study does not support all elements of the labeling perspective, it suggests that the labeling approach provides a useful framework for understanding the relationships between disability and substance abuse. Figures, tables, references