NCJ Number
129807
Journal
International Journal on Drug Policy Volume: 2 Issue: 4 Dated: (January/February 1991) Pages: 28-34
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The inhalation of gasoline and other volatile solvents is one of the major health and social issues facing Aboriginal youth in Australia today.
Abstract
Gasoline is the drug of choice mainly because of its ready availability, low cost, and the rapidity of mood alteration that its inhalation produces. Although the number of individuals who inhale gasoline is small, and the use varies markedly among communities, the impacts can be large. The physical effects can include seizures, tremors, anorexia, hyperactivity, bizarre behavior, brain damage, and sudden death. Gasoline sniffing has several types of social meanings in Aboriginal communities. These include the demonstration of nonconformity and an effort to delay entry into mainstream life, an effort to become thin, and an expression of power and control in an otherwise powerless situation. Understanding these meanings can aid efforts to develop appropriate policies and programs. 24 references