Theorizing Novel and Emerging Drug Use: A Motivational Typology

• NCJ Number: 253720
• Journal: Deviant Behavior Volume: 40 Issue: 9 Dated: 2019 Pages: 1105-1118
• Author(s): J. M. Miller; Holly V. Miller; Taylor L. Claxton
• Date Published: 2019
• Length: 14 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2011-RW-BX-0008 and 2011-RN-BX-0004
• Sponsoring Agency: Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored); Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study presents a motivational typology of the use of novel and emerging psychoactive drugs (NEPD) derived from interview data for a sample of offenders participating in jail-based drug treatment.

Abstract

Novel and emerging psychoactive drugs (NEPDs), a research-based classification referencing a wide range of natural plant-derived substances and synthetic compounds, have garnered considerable academic attention in recent years. Most of the scientific literature on NEPDs presents definitional overviews of specific substances in terms of their chemical composition and toxicology or socio-legal commentary. The current study's findings indicate four primary motives for NEPD use (experimentation, drug alternative, peer influence, and availability) and inform discussion for additional research and policy implications. (publisher abstract modified)