Harm Induction Vs. Harm Reduction: Comparing American And British Approaches To Drug Use

Authors

Katherine Van Wormer, University of Northern IowaFollow

Document Type

Article

Keywords

American culture, British culture, Harm reduction, Puritans, War on drugs

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Offender Rehabilitation

Volume

29

Issue

1-2

First Page

35

Last Page

48

Abstract

The disease model for drug use and abuse, while still the predominant conceptualization guiding U.S. treatment, is now being challenged by the harm reduction model, highly developed in Britain. This paper examines both positions in light of historical/cultural differences related to Puritan zealotry and argues that with regard to illegal drugs, America’s War on Drugs actually inflicts harm. The huge government expenditure, spread of AIDS, criminalization of drug users, and treatment neglect are just several of the negative consequences. © 1999 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

Department

Department of Social Work

Original Publication Date

1-1-1999

DOI of published version

10.1300/J076v29n01_03

Recommended Citation

Wormer, Katherine Van, "Harm Induction Vs. Harm Reduction: Comparing American And British Approaches To Drug Use" (1999). Faculty Publications. 3784.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/facpub/3784