Recent Research into the Direct Relationship between Criminality and Substance Abuse

ABSTRACT

There is a very close relationship between substance abuse and delinquent and eventually criminal behaviour. The article covers the causes of adult and youth use of substance abuse leading to crime and then concentrates on both adults and youths separately. Factors such as gender and race are also associated with criminal activities resulting from, or associated with, substance abuse.

The victims of substance abuse are not only those who are robbed, but also those in domestic violence. Efforts are made to prevent and treat the problem. There is however, no easy route in this area. Not all crimes are committed under the influence of drugs or due to drug taking, but many are committed for this reason. The reliance on drugs lowers inhibitions and rational thinking and once the individual has been addicted, there is a need to continue a career of crime, in order to satisfy the habit.