Knowledge and Experience of Young People regarding Drug Abuse between 1969 and 1974

Abstract

A trend survey was carried out by anonymous questionnaire, with an additional 10 per cent interview sample, of the knowledge and experience of drug abuse among fourth-year pupils in three Wolverhampton secondary schools in 1969 and 1974, with additional reference to a smaller survey in 1968. The survey shows the range of drugs known to the groups, their contact with drugs and drug takers, their sources of information about drugs and the reasons given for taking drugs. Changes between the earlier and later surveys are discussed. The findings suggest that between 1969 and 1974: There was a decrease in interest in and a continued ignorance of drugs; An increasing minority were in contact with drugs; That amphetamines and LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) were less, and sedatives more, available; That parties and public houses had become more, and coffee bars less, important as sources of supply; That these young people, who are predominantly not drug takers and not in contact with drugs, consider that social and situational pressures are more important than mental or personality stress as the reasons for drug taking. The implications of these findings are discussed.