"Generally, you get 86'ed because you're a liability": An application of Integrated Threat Theory to frequently witnessed overdoses and social distancing responses.

Social Science & Medicine
Jeanette M BowlesPeter J Davidson

Abstract

While rates of opioid overdose deaths in North American have increased exponentially in recent years, most overdoses are not fatal, especially when witnesses are present and can intervene. Previous research has found that some people who use drugs [PWUDs] trained in overdose response might cut social ties with frequent overdosers, leading to more solitary opioid use and risk of death if someone overdoses alone. To examine the phenomenon of social distancing of people who overdose frequently, we used data from fifty-two in-depth qualitative interviews collected in Southern California with PWUDs who had recently witnessed an opioid overdose. Transcripts were reviewed and coded thematically, using the Integrated Threat Theory (ITT) to conceptualize the observed phenomenon. ITT outlines how realistic and symbolic threats are experienced by a group. We found that while some participants acknowledged the role of adulterated street drugs in overdoses, individualized blame was nonetheless imposed. Accusations of careless drug use practices fostered negative stereotyping towards frequent overdosers. This was attributed to the need to summon 911 for rescue, which often resulted in police dispatch. The intergroup relationship between poli...Continue Reading

Citations

Nov 24, 2020·The International Journal on Drug Policy·Emily van der MeulenJanet Butler-McPhee
Mar 9, 2021·Translational Research : the Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine·Alex S Bennett, Luther Elliott
May 21, 2021·American Journal of Public Health·Karla D WagnerPeter J Davidson
Sep 18, 2021·Prehospital Emergency Care : Official Journal of the National Association of EMS Physicians and the National Association of State EMS Directors·Olufemi AjumobiKarla D Wagner

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