Drug Use In The Urban Nightscape

From my previous posts it can be observed that many of them are associated with social aspects that relate to the urban nightlife, this blog is similar and takes the same pattern. Drug use in urban areas has always presented itself as a negative characteristic associated with such areas. There are many reasons why people resort to drug use. A major reason is through curiosity, drugs are a frequent topic of conversation and most people have friends or acquaintances that use them. Curiosity is almost part of human nature, many people, especially young people, are curious about drugs and how they make a person feel, this can be one of the most important factors that lead to drug use as some of these users may continue using drugs after experiencing its effects. Another reason may be through social pressure, this has a very strong impact on many people as they may feel pressured to drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. There are certain social groups, which make drugs seem fashionable or trendy. In these groups, using is the key to belonging; anyone who abstains will be excluded. Because some people are desperate to find a place to fit in, they go along with it. Drug use may also be associated with pleasure as some individuals obtain a ‘high’ from it and use it as a form of relaxation and euphoria. The media often plays a big role in the persuasion of people into using drugs as it is sometimes glorified. This will affect how people view the issue, even if it is subconsciously. The media may promote drugs as being an acceptable social activity and a way to achieve success. People also take drugs as a result of a low self-esteem and these substances make them feel good about themselves. Emotional problems such as anger, stress, anxiety, depression and even boredom are also significant contributors as to the reasons people use drugs. Scientific research shows in many cases young adults that frequent nightclubs and also parties and dance events are more likely to use more drugs when compared to the general population that used drugs for other reasons (Hunt et al 2010). The most popular party drugs include Alcohol, Cannabis, Ecstasy, Cocaine, Amphetamine and GHB. I can even relate to many instances of going out to popular urban nightclubs and seeing people using these illicit drugs and reflecting as to the implications they may possibly have on such persons and the fact that the availability of some of these drugs are sometimes just a phone call away.

Read more:

Hunt, Geoffrey, Molly Moloney, and Kristin Evans. Youth, drugs, and nightlife. New York, NY:      Routledge, 2010.

Listen:

Sizzla- Smoke Marijuana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgjrcSQsuro