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Evaluation of a strategy for changing group stereotypes of the heroin user
Author(s) -
WILKS JEFFREY,
AUSTIN DEREK A.
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
drug and alcohol review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.018
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1465-3362
pISSN - 0959-5236
DOI - 10.1080/09595239100185161
Subject(s) - heroin , semantic differential , psychology , attribution , drug user , stereotype (uml) , test (biology) , social psychology , attitude change , drug , psychiatry , paleontology , biology
This study examined characteristics attributed to a person using an illegal narcotic drug (heroin) and sought to change established stereotypes by participation in a group education experience. Prior to the main study, 100 Advanced Psychology students generated lists of adjectives they would use to describe a heroin user. The most frequently mentioned characteristics were placed in structured lists as pre‐ and post‐test measures. Both semantic differential and open‐choice formats were used. The Prevention Role Play, a recently developed strategy in drug education, was used to challenge the group's stereotypes. Significant shifts in attributions were revealed between the pre‐ and post‐test measures. After the Role Play students reduced their negative stereotype on a number of dimensions though they still described the heroin user as confused, insecure, troubled and lonely. The discussion considers possible strategies for facilitating positive attitude change. [Wilks J, Austin DA. Evaluation of a strategy for changing group stereotypes of the heroin user. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991; 10: 107‐113]