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University Student Attitudes Toward Illicit Drug Use and Trafficking in Russia

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Abstract

This article deals with research of Russian university student attitudes toward drug use. Research was conducted in 2015; and, 150 students from Smolensk universities took part. The sample consists of three age groups of students: 17–18, 19, and 20 years and older. Study results show students view people with addiction in a negative context - weak, stupid, unreliable, and unhappy. Also, attitudes reflect support for extreme punishment of drug traffickers for drug distribution blaming Roma “Gypsies.” Age of the student respondents was a significant factor affecting attitudes – older students have a more negative attitude about people with addiction and are more inclined to call for harsh punishment. Study results provide usable information for drug policy, education and prevention efforts in Russia.

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Correspondence to Valentina Gritsenko.

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Gritsenko, V., Gavronova, Y., Khalepo, O. et al. University Student Attitudes Toward Illicit Drug Use and Trafficking in Russia. Int J Ment Health Addiction 15, 350–355 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9730-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9730-6

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