Abstract
In recent decades, we have witnessed how recreational drug use is extending further into adulthood than has traditionally been the case. Analyzing survey data from America, Australia, and England and Wales this chapter summarizes the extent and patterns of adult recreational drug use from the end of early adulthood to older adulthood, as well as recent and long-term trends. The chapter considers some explanations for these findings drawing on the concept of a cohort replacement effect, the impact of transitions to adulthood, and the functions of recreational drug use. Research and policy implications of the findings are discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | SAGE Handbook of Drug and Alcohol Studies |
| Subtitle of host publication | Social Science Approaches |
| Place of Publication | London |
| Publisher | Sage Publications Ltd |
| Pages | 445-466 |
| Number of pages | 21 |
| Volume | 1 |
| Edition | 1 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 978-1446298664 |
| ISBN (Print) | 1446298663 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 20 Oct 2016 |