Question

Do you think decriminalizing drug use would improve outcomes for those with substance abuse problems? Or do you believe prison is a helpful deterrent?

Answer 1

In my opinion, decriminalising drug use would be important in tackling substance abuse problems. Individuals who start abusing substances tend to have deeper personality and emotional issues that drive them towards addiction. Sending such individuals would only address the symptom, that is substance abuse, but not the root cause, which is the motivator for drug use. In such a context, the effects would be superficial and temporary. Thus, substance abuse problems should be dealt with in rehabilitation and health care centres rather than prisons.