Methamphetamine is a drug that rapidly affects its users. It offers an intense high that allows users to be focused and highly productive, have intense sexual experiences, and feel on top of the world. The drug is easily accessible and affordable to a diverse array of users and as a result has become a major public health concern in the United States.
Methamphetamine Addiction presents a biopsychosocial perspective on this drug addiction, taking into account the biochemistry of the drug, the predispositions and behavioral patterns of the individual user, and the effects of the drug on the immediate and wider social environments of these drug users.
Drawing on the most current theories and most recent clinical, behavioral, and medical research available, author Perry Halkitis provides extensive background on the drug. He examines its production in the US, its addictive properties, and its effects on users, which include a complex synergy with HIV. National prevention efforts are discussed as well as treatment options and directions for future research.
Two contributed chapters, one from a physician and the other from a counseling psychologist, provide details on working compassionately and effectively with methamphetamine users in healthcare settings.
While the book is written from the perspective of a behavioral scientist, it also provides guidance to health and mental health professionals, social workers, public health officials, counselors, teachers, addiction educators, and treatment specialists. This is truly a comprehensive look at the drug epidemic of our time.
List of Figures and Exhibits
Foreword
—Cathy Reback, PhD
Preface
Acknowledgments
Methamphetamine: Sociohistorical Contexts and Epidemiological Patterns
The Chemistry and Biology of Methamphetamine Use
Illegal Production of Methamphetamine in the United States
Biopsychosocial Consequences of Methamphetamine Addiction
Methamphetamine, Sex, Sexuality, and Sexual Risk Taking
Motivations and Antecedents of Methamphetamine Use: Risk Bases
Treatment Considerations for Methamphetamine Addiction
Prevention Efforts to Address Methamphetamine
Working With the Methamphetamine-Addicted Client in Medical Settings
—Antonio E. Urbina
Working With the Methamphetamine-Addicted Client in Mental Health Settings
—Daniel J. Carragher
Methamphetamine: Future Directions for Research and Practice
References
Index
About the Author
Perry N. Halkitis, PhD, is associate dean for research and doctoral studies; professor of applied psychology and public health; and director of the Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. He is internationally recognized for his work examining the intersection between HIV, drug abuse, and mental health, and is well known as one of the nation's leading experts on methamphetamine addiction and HIV behavioral research.
He is the author of approximately 100 peer-reviewed academic articles, and he was recently the lead editor of two volumes: HIV+ Sex: The Psychological and Interpersonal Dynamics of HIV-Seropositive Gay and Bisexual Men's Relationships. (American Psychological Association, 2005), and Barebacking: Psychosocial and Public Health Perspectives (2006).
Dr. Halkitis's research examines how sexual and drug-related risk taking are influenced by interpersonal, intrapersonal, contextual, developmental, and cultural factors in the United States. His research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, New York State AIDS Institute, the United Way, the New York Community Trust, and the American Psychological Foundation.
In addition, Dr. Halkitis is an applied statistician and psychometrician. He is the recipient of numerous awards from both professional and community-based organizations, and he is an elected a fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine, the Society of Behavioral Medicine, and the American Psychological Association.
This book is a timely, useful reference for any health and human services professional or student seeking insight into methamphetamine use and its impact on its users, their associates, and communities. Academic and professional libraries should aquire this volume. Highly recommended.
—CHOICE
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