title: Evaluation of a strategy for changing group stereotypes of the heroin user.
abstract: This study examined characteristics attributed to a person using an illegal narcotic drug (heroin) and sought to change established stereotypes by participation in a group education experience. Prior to the main study, 100 Advanced Psychology students generated lists of adjectives they would use to describe a heroin user. The most frequently mentioned characteristics were placed in structured lists as pre- and post-test measures. Both semantic differential and open-choice formats were used. The Prevention Role Play, a recently developed strategy in drug education, was used to challenge the group's stereotypes. Significant shifts in attributions were revealed between the pre- and post-test measures. After the Role Play students reduced their negative stereotype on a number of dimensions though they still described the heroin user as confused, insecure, troubled and lonely. The discussion considers possible strategies for facilitating positive attitude change.
authors.affiliation: Key Centre in Strategic Management, Queensland University of Technology, GPO Box 2434, Brisbane, Queensland, 4001, Australia.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Wilks
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Austin