NCJ Number
187764
Date Published
May 2001
Length
0 pages
Publication Series
Annotation
This video lecture describes research in progress with ADAM drug
data, with attention to how such data are being used to guide
local policy and practice in efforts to counter drug-related
crimes.
Abstract
ADAM data are derived from interviews and urine testing that are designed to determine the prevalence of the use of various drugs by arrestees, along with selected factors associated with such drug use. The presentations of two researchers include
descriptions of some new forms of ADAM data collection, namely, a
change in survey content that includes the use of the "calendar"
method, along with probability sampling. The calendar method of
interviewing asks arrestees to recall the chronology of
significant events in their lives within the last 12 months. The
sample used in the current study is also described. It consisted
of arrested felons in 27 sites interviewed in the year 2000. All
participants were adult male arrestees. Marijuana use was found
to predominate in the sample across sites, but cocaine use was
prominent in some sites. There was also heavy drinking among the
arrestees. The value of the ADAM data is considered unique in its
focus on local drug consumption among persons who are charged
with committing felonies. Such data are particularly valuable in
determining patterns of drug use in the community, the geographic
distribution of drug use, and the nature of drug transactions and
trafficking. These analyses in turn can be useful for determining
the types of interventions most appropriate for a local
jurisdiction.
Date Published: May 1, 2001