Sociology and Criminology-Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Criminal Behaviour in Users of Psychoactive Substances Who Began Treatment

Karina Diniz Oliveira and Renata Cruz Soares de Azevedo

Objectives: To describe the profile of substance abusers and dependents who looked for treatment in two drug rehabilitation centers in the city of Campinas, SP, and their pattern of use. To discuss the relationship between criminal behavior and the use and dependence of psychoactive substances.(PAS) Methods: Quantitative cross-section study, 183 adult participants, users and/or dependents of one or multiples PAS in treatment. Measurements: questionnaire containing sociodemographic data, pattern of consumption of PSA, and practice in committing crimes; items from Sections J, K and P of the “Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview”. (M.I.N.I.) To provide a more accurate analysis of the data, a new variable was described as “modified” ASPD (ASPDm), which was determined by excluding the items on the MINI directly related to criminality. Results: Respondents were male, average age 40.8, less than 8 years of schooling. Poliuse of PSA: alcohol and cocaine. Criminal acts had been practiced by 40,4%; 51 complied with criteria for ASPD. Variables correlated with criminal behavior: ASPDm, absence of religious practice (OR=6,783), ASPD (OR=9,225) and antecedent of use of solvents (OR=5,442). Conclusion: In this sample, the findings suggest that, for most drug users who seek treatment, substance use is not the only associated factor with criminal behavior.