Society has evolved in many ways, and the use of drugs like powder and crack cocaine has become problematic. Numerous studies have shown that the negative effects of drug use lead to behavioral and emotional instability, disturbing cognitive functions. Substance abuse has proven to have detrimental results, so steps must be taken in controlling and preventing the use of illegal drugs. In my personal opinion, drugs are very detrimental to health and cause damage that cannot be repaired.
Research has shown that crack cocaine is used most commonly, as it is cheaper than powder cocaine (Olive 17).
This was later disproved and reflected in the sentencing, as before, there was a panic that cracks cocaine was more addictive. Thus the sentencing was harsher. Recently, the sentencing has changed, and mandatory imprisonment was levied. But the fact that crack cocaine is cheaper makes it extremely accessible and allows for further spreading among the population. It is bought in a rock formation and is then heated on a spoon to produce a watery substance.
People usually either inject the drug or smoke it. The effects that crack cocaine produces are immediate. The person starts feeling overconfident and full of energy, along with the loss of appetite. The damage that is done to the health and mental capacities of a person is not directly observed or noticed by the users, and this makes the drug even more popular. It has been shown that crack cocaine leads to an increase in physical senses, making people less motivated, and experiencing concentration loss. There are many references in songs to people trying to get drugs for gold chains. The desperation of people dependant on the drugs is evident from the lyrics (N.W.A. – Dope Man).
In many cases, it has alienated people who developed anti-social tendencies where individuals become isolated and engage in drug use. This majorly impacts the life and future, as the long term effects impact all functions of the organism. The use of drugs is mostly caused by social cues, easy access, and proximity influence. The media and a number of celebrities reinforce the view that crack cocaine is harmful to health, and people should not fall victim to the usage of the drug.
Dave Chapelle has made it into a comedic act, but the negative effects are evident (Tyrone big gums red bulls).
The effects of crack cocaine have been illustrated to fall within a great range. Those who use it socially exhibit tendencies to get involved in more risk-taking behavior and relations with people who are not well known. It has also led to promiscuity and irresponsible behavior among group users. Social use has a direct linkage to the mental instability that the drug produces.
People have experienced irritative behavior, emotional lack of control, and mental instability. Some studies have displayed that while using crack cocaine, the brain develops in a different way and thus, leads to diversion from norms in the uptake and comprehension of information. There is also a higher chance of developing mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety. As motivation lowers, a person’s ability to function in a society greatly lowers. It is one of the drugs that are used by the lower class because of its low price and effects.
The usage becomes a cycle where each aspect of social, personal, and emotional instability causes and affects another. A person starts losing self-esteem, might develop paranoia and social exclusion (Bogazianos 10).
Unfortunately, there is very little data that can justifiably state which mental disorders are specifically linked with crack cocaine use, and so, further research is required.
Works Cited
Bogazianos, Dimitri. 5 Grams: Crack Cocaine, Rap Music, and the War on Drugs. New York: N.Y.U. Press, 2012. Print.
N.W.A – Dope Man 2008. Web.
Olive, Foster. Crack. New York: Infobase Publishing, 2009. Print.
Tyrone big gums red bulls 2009. Web.