Book Review
Drug problems in our society: dimensions and perspectives
White J., Ali R., Christie P., Cormack S., Caughwin M., Mendoza J. and Sweeney R.
ISBN: 07308 27763; 1992; 435 pages; Drug and Alcohol Services Council South Australia;
Kim Usher
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Nutrition, James Cook University, Cairns QLD
This book presents an overview of contemporary drug problems from a range of different perspectives. It is a compilation of selected papers presented at the conference entitled 'The Window of Opportunity: an intersectoral approach to drug related problems in our society', held in Adelaide in December 1991. The papers selected for the book represent a range of Australian ideas and issues, whilst also including a range of international viewpoints. The editors aimed to produce the volume within a short time frame as, in the drug area, ideas and views are often subject to rapid change. This aim was achieved. However, as a result, some sacrifice in uniformity has occurred, and a few typographic errors.
The book is divided into 11 sections which each represent a theme of the conference: policy framework, from policy to practice, legal issues, the alcohol policy debate, education, primary health care, workplace interventions, treatment, epidemiology, biological aspects, and HIV/AIDS. Each section has an introduction which well equips the reader and relates each paper to the overall theme. The book is also equipped with a satisfactory index.
At present, this book is unique as it presents the findings of current research in the area of drug abuse. In addition, the current debate around topical issues within this arena is addressed. A broad range of topics is covered within the themes, which offer the reader an excellent overview of current thinking within the field. Some papers challenge previously held beliefs and propose the incorporation of previously neglected factors into policy and practice. For example, the issues surrounding the fundamental human right of self-determination. A number of findings within the papers support the importance of gender sensitive services for women. An excellent book for those involved in all areas of nursing, education, and research into drug related areas.
eContent Home
