Toward an Integrative Framework for the Comprehensive Study of Drug-Taking Behaviors and Experiences

Abstract

There are a variety of approaches to the study of drug-taking behaviors and experiences. Each approach usually examines only a particular aspect of drug taking, depending upon epistemological orientation, type of knowledge utilized, focus of inquiry and a host of other factors. This can result in a number of problems and misconceptions, and the domination of an area of inquiry by a specific discipline. In an attempt to solve some of these problems and to strive for a more holistic approach, an integrative framework for the study of drug-taking phenomena is presented and discussed. Examples of the application and utility of the framework are considered, with suggestions for future activities in this area.