Cannabis : its presence and effects on a small island community

Abstract

The first part of this work includes historical perspectives of Cannabis (il-haxixa), its physical and psychological hazards together with its medical uses. lt also treats the 'escalation theory', regarding cannabis as a harbinger of other illicit drugs. The legalization of this drug is looked at from different perspectives. The influence of cannabis on family, sport, and employment in Gozo is also investigated. The second part of this study consists of a survey carried out in Goza. 200 questionnaires were distributed, 30% among primary, secondary, post-secondary and tertiary students, 10% were distributed among the 'registered' drug addicts at the Detox Centre in Gozo while 60% were distributed among parents, sportsmen, and employees. This work also sets out to discover what kind of preventive education is currently being offered. The awareness and availability of this drug, together with its usage under peer group pressure, and its clandestine cultivation, are also examined. Finally, the role of the social worker in the care of the addict, within the frame of a small community like Gozo, is also evaluated.