Comparative analysis of social practices in drug abuse prevention: Russian and international experience

Abstract

The increasing mortality rate due to drug abuse, including among minors, the rising number of registered individuals with narcotic dependency syndrome, and contemporary characteristics of drug use underscore the social need for analysing drug abuse prevention practices in Russia and other countries. The article presents the results of a review of specialised statistical data and information sources, examining both liberalrestrictive and repressive anti-drug preventive measures. An analysis of current prevention strategies in foreign countries is conducted, including the USA, European countries, China, Japan, and South Korea, along with an examination of anti-drug preventive measures in Russia. The study reveals the greater effectiveness of prevention programmes using a liberal-restrictive approach, which focus on developing protective social skills, stress coping mechanisms, promoting positive interpersonal interactions, and fostering healthy intra-family relationships, in comparison to the repressive approach. The social practices of the latter are based on stricter penalties and intimidation, leading to increased covert drug use, heightened fears of seeking specialised help, exacerbated harmful consequences for users’ health, and a lack of reliable statistical data. The conclusion is drawn that to enhance the effectiveness of drug abuse prevention in Russia, it is advisable to critically evaluate and utilise the experience of countries that emphasise a restrictive approach. The focus should shift from intimidating and harshly punishing drug users to developing positive social skills and creating differentiated support and educational programmes for various population groups.