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Understanding Substance Use Disorders in the Justice System
Principle 1
What the Science Tells Us About Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders historically have been primarily viewed as moral failings or problems of willpower.[1] Individuals who repeatedly used alcohol or drugs despite harmful consequences were often seen as making poor choices that deserved punishment rather than treatment.[2] These beliefs shaped public policy, influenced criminal justice practices, and affected how courts responded to people with substance use disorders.[3]
Over the past several decades, scientific research has fundamentally changed our understanding of…
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