Signals from drugs research

Synopsis What are the latest results from research in the fields of the social sciences, psychology and biomedicine with regard to drug addiction and dependency on psychoactive substances? In this publication, experts in these three areas present the results of the latest research into the problem of drug addiction. The dynamics of the cannabis market are analysed through the lens of sociology, whereas researchers in psychology look at personality traits, impulsivity and sensation seeking. In addition, the most recent theories in neuroscience and dependency are presented. Finally, this book provides information on what treatments are available, or may be available in future, for drug addiction. This inventory of signals from drug research should interest scientists, those working with drug addiction and policy makers as part of the Pompidou Group's commitment to communicating the latest research findings in policy, science and practice in the field of drugs. Contents Summary Social drug research Psychological drug research Biomedical drug research Drug treatment Chapter 1 - Cannabis in Europe: social research studies on dynamics in perception, policy and markets 1. Introduction: focus on cannabis 2. Cannabis and schizophrenia 3. Cannabis and youth 4. Cannabis dependence and marijuana potency 5. Changing cannabis policies 6. Domestic cannabis cultivation 7. Cannabis retail markets 8. Drug prevention for vulnerable young people 9. Vocal cannabis users References Chapter 2 - Drug research: recent signals from the psychological field 1. Overview 2. Signals from psychological drug research 2.1. Personality traits 2.1.1. Impulsivity 2.1.2. Sensation seeking 2.1.3. Drug expectancies 3. Conclusions References Chapter 3 - Drug research: recent signals from the biomedical field 1. Introduction 2. Clinical manifestations of drug dependence/addiction 3. Current theories in the neuroscience of drug dependence/addiction 4. Genetics of drug dependence/addiction 5. Conclusions 6. Glossary References Chapter 4 - Initial assessment of the European Scientific Conference on "How can we better treat drug addiction? New scientific and clinical challenges for Europe" 1. Challenges and problems considered at the conference 2. Main points to retain from the seven thematic sessions of the conference Session 1 - Advances in research in the neurobiology of addictions: what is new in the development of more efficacious treatments? Session 2 - What approaches for treating addictions to cocaine and crack? Session 3 - The contributions of community-based approaches Session 4 - What is the medium and long-term outcome for patients receiving opiate substitution treatments? Session 5 - What treatment options for young problematic users of cannabis? Session 6 - Change without treatment: interest and possibilities Session 7 - How can we better organise addiction treatment research at the European level? Programme of the European Conference of Scientific Experts (9 and 10 December 2008) Pompidou Group publications and documents