Changing Orientations among Cocaine Users: Consequences of Involvement in Community Distribution Networks

Abstract

A study of 44 participants in a rural community cocaine network was conducted to determine the factors associated with increased expenditures for cocaine and the consequences of such involvement. Through correlational analysis techniques, four major categories of variables were shown to be strongly related to extent of involvement: demographic, purchasing ability, supply opportunities, and cost-reduction efforts. The major effects of increased involvement were an increase in egocentrism in relations with drug-using friends, a decline in self-control over administration, heightened concerns about possession, and strengthened justifications regarding drug use.