title: Symbolic interaction theory: a perspective on drug abuse and its treatment.
abstract: Symbolic interaction theory is employed to explain the etiology of drug abuse and addiction. Selected interactionist concepts, which are especially pertinent to an understanding of drug abuse, are considered in relation to current drug abuse theory and the literature on the characteristics of drug abusers. The implications of this theoretical perspective for treatment are considered.
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012933:Social Identification; D012945:Social Values; D012951:Socialization; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D013561:Symbolism