Dispelling the Myths About Addiction Strategies to Increase Understanding and Strengthen Research (1997) / Chapter Skim
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8 Public Perceptions, Public Policies
8 Public Perceptions, Public Policies
Pages 139-146
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From page 139... ...
. Although there have been many scientific advances in knowledge of drug addiction, the public's perceptions and understanding lag far behind (see time line in Appendix E)
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From page 140... ...
When policymakers view drug abusers as untreatable or undeserving of public support, treatment programs, insurance coverage, and research and training programs may be underfunded or abolished. Undervalued Area of Research The stigma associated with drug addiction has directly deterred young investigators who might otherwise be interested in pursuing careers in addiction research and treatment.
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From page 141... ...
Although some high-profile persons, including Betty Ford and Carroll O'Connor, have spoken out about addiction and worked to increase public understanding, openness from a variety of celebrities about these problems and how they affect individuals and families will be a continuing need and potent force for changing public attitudes. Many disease-oriented advocacy groups are able to mobilize behind the hope for a vaccine or a cure, even though research tends to produce only small, incremental improvements in the management of a chronic disease.
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From page 142... ...
STRATEGIES Inadequacies in education about addictive drugs and addiction and the pervasive stigma attached to those involved in careers in addiction research as well as those who have problems of abuse and addiction pose serious barriers for careers in addiction research and treatment. The lack of opportunities for integrative and collaborative research, the inadequacy of training and education opportunities, and limited funding levels are also significant barriers.
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From page 143... ...
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From page 144... ...
A campaign for addiction education should include Ad Council initiatives, private and public funding of efforts to develop educational programs for schools or community-based and adult education programs, educational computer programs, and public television and other media communications. ~ particular, science writers should be educated Trough press conferences and public symposia.
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From page 145... ...
Specific strategies to increase public understanding and reduce stigma should include: Increasing communications with the media to report accurate, reliable, and timely information about research findings to the widest spectrum of government and industry officials and to the broader public; · Disseminating scientific information to increase the public's awareness of the neurobiological and behavioral underpinnings of addictive disease, the value of treatment, and the importance of research; · Forging an alliance between local citizens' groups and scientists to conduct local symposia at which the public can hear presentations by scientists; · Strengthening existing grassroots organizations and organizing new groups; · Seeking funding for science writers; · Aggressively seeking increased support for research on nicotine, alcohol, and illegal drugs; · Increasing the focus on addiction research within existing organizations Mat advocate on behalf of addiction treatment and services; and
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From page 146... ...
· Liaison relationships and joint activities should be explored among advocacy groups to increase public understanding of addictive disorders. Activities could include meetings of representatives of provider groups, state and local health departments, and established grassroots advocacy groups, to develop cohesive, workable strategies to accomplish change.
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