This thought-provoking book argues that much current thinking about drugs and crime is simplistic and misguided, because it fails to take into account the complex social and psychological contexts that underpin the relationship between drug or alcohol problems and crime. In clear and accessible language, it reviews existing explanations of the links between drugs and crime, and assesses the practical approaches currently being taken to tackle the problems involved.

Key topics covered include:

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• The kinds of substance uses society finds acceptable and normal, and the reasons for these categorisations
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• What causes offending, drug use and drug problems across the life course
  
• Regulating the illicit drugs industry
  
• Addressing poverty and social exclusion, which are key drivers of drugs and crime.