Community perception of the solvent inhalants use

Author(s): Romero, M., Dallal, C., Stern, R., Molina, K.

Journal/Book: Salud Ment. 1998; 21: Calz Mexico-Xochimilco #101, Mexico City 22 DF, Mexico. Inst Mex Psiquiatria. 19-28.

Abstract: This paper describes an ethnographic study with a gender orientation on the perception and knowledge of key informants of volatile substance abuse in a high incidence area in Mexico City. A qualitative approach was followed. Information was gathered by means of focalized interviews (n = 23) to people in contact with drug users, such as health, education, justice, community services, and non-governmental organizations (NGO's). Results show that key informants agree that substance abuse is an extended problem and its incidence is increasing. They perceive consumption as related to family problems, such as desintegration, lack of communication, and poverty. They had an adequate knowledge on the substances most widely used, the symptoms of intoxication, dependence and withdrawal and of the consequences of volatile substance abuse. On the issue of gender differences, most of them agree that this problem is more frequent among males, that there are no differences in the kind of substance used nor in tolerance,abstinence or services. The consequence abuse are perceive as being worst for women, who are more criticized, rejected and stigmatized by the community than male users. Key informants suggest preventive actions such as campaigns, parental guidance, conferences, an so on, and think that there is a lack of specialized services.

Note: Article Lara A, Inst Mexicano Psiquiatria, Div Invest Epidemiol & Sociales, Dpto Inv Epidemiol, Mexico City 14370, DF, MEXICO

Keyword(s): solvent inhalants; community; gender; qualitative research

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