Substance Abuse

This engaging resource handbook offers readers with both a thorough overview of the use and abuse of legal and illegal substances in the United States and a worldwide perspective on the topic.

From alcohol and tobacco to marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, Substance Abuse: A Reference Handbook provides readers with a complete overview of legal and illicit drug use. Tracing the history of substance abuse throughout much of human history, the handbook provides scientific data clarifying how various types of addictive substances operate within the human system, both physically and psychologically. It also documents the ways in which various cultures—including modern-day America—have tried to control the use of these substances, and the consequences of those efforts.



Containing chronological and biographical sketches, lists of organizations, fundamental documents and data, and a complete annotated bibliography, Substance Abuse enables students to continue their own research.


• Historic court decisions and laws related to substance abuse

• A chronology of pivotal events in the history of substance abuse from prehistory to the present

• An extended annotated bibliography containing more than 100 print and electronic resources on substance abuse

• Complete glossary and index to allow easy referencing of information