P-64UNDERSTANDING ADDICTION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF DRUG ABUSERS

Introduction. What causes an abuser to relapse to drug use, especially when the consequences can result in incarceration? Positive and negative expectancies have been used to explain the motivation for drug use. Depending on the individual, the variation of the strength of their expectancies would account for the individual differences of drug use patterns across contexts. The affect of a drug abuser is also key in understanding drug use behaviour. Drug craving can be triggered by negative emotional states, events, cues of withdrawal episodes and information that the drug is not available. On the other hand, positive emotional states can activate the system, which induces increased effectiveness of drug-related cues, thoughts and actions. Therefore, drug craving and avoidance of withdrawal may act simultaneously in individuals. Method & Results. Detailed interviews with Singaporean drug users were conducted in order to determine the specific drug cognitions that initiated and maintained their drug use. The specific motives behind the processes of drug addiction are complex and vast, with several different perspectives to be considered. This qualitative study analysed the cognitions and motivations across the process of drug consumption (initiation of drug use, maintenance of drug use and the progress to addiction) for Asian drug offenders. Conclusion. Understanding the cognitions and motivations of drug offenders in Singapore is essential for future development of effective treatment programs, interventions and prevention strategies.