NCJ Number
198505
Date Published
2002
Length
0 pages
Annotation
Although focusing on the nature, effects, production, and prevention of methamphetamine, this seven-lesson, instructive CD-ROM also contains lessons on drugs in general, “club drugs,” and “gateway” drugs.
Abstract
An introductory section provides an overview of the prevalence of drug use in the United States, particularly among youth, and the negative impact of drug use in terms of crime, health, and family functioning. The first of seven lessons presents general background information on drugs, including associated terminology and drug classifications. The second lesson focuses on “gateway drugs,” i.e., drugs with relatively mild effects that can lead to the abuse of more harmful and addictive drugs. Types of gateway drugs are identified and described, along with the behaviors forged by their use that can lead to more serious drug abuse. The third lesson addresses “club” drugs -- such as MDMA, depressants, GHB, Ketamine, and Rohypnol -- which are used largely at dance clubs. The fourth lesson focuses on methamphetamine as it discusses the three types of methamphetamine, trafficking, the production process, and the hazards of the manufacturing process in clandestine labs. Lesson 5 considers the health issues associated with the use of d-methamphetamine, including the regional patterns of methamphetamine use and its negative impact on physical and mental health. The sixth lesson features instruction in how parents can interact and communicate with their children in ways that discourage the children’s use of drugs. The role of educators and the community in drug prevention are also discussed. The seventh lesson concerns legal issues in drug use. This lesson explains drug laws and the types of drugs whose use is illegal, along with the sanctions specified. A section on references provides resources for further information and instruction in illegal drugs.