SOS 304 Drugs, Society, and human Behavior

Based upon our reading and video content throughout this course, and based upon your own independent research, please address the following: 

1. Introduction

Select one class of drug that we have covered whose use you think has contributed significantly to social problems here in the United States. You should include in this introduction:

• a history of the human relationship to this drug
• its route of administration
• other pertinent background information

1. Specific Problems

Explain in detail the specific problems caused by the use of this drug from a sociological perspective. You will need to cite specific data sources here. Then, adopting a historical perspective discuss important sets of statistics form reputable sources and how the problems have changed over the years.

1. Media Portrayal

Provide a content analysis of how the use of this drug is portrayed in the media. There are many sources of information here. Look at news broadcasts, periodical accounts, and of course, films.

Compile at least FIVE pieces of content for this analysis. For example, if you are looking at the way that this drug is portrayed in film, you will need to use at least FIVE different films for your analysis. Cite these sources appropriately. Based upon the content you have examined, think about: What is the overarching theme that this content states about the drug you’re covering? To what extent do you think that this content shapes public perceptions of this drug?

1. Response

Finally, end your essay with an evaluation of the type of response that the use of this drug has sparked from society. For example, has the societal response been effective, or is it showing promise? Why or why not? You will need to research some of the most pertinent policies here on a local, state, and federal level.