When youth combine drugs and violence: an explosive cocktail
Young offenders held in youth rehabilitation centres constitute an at risk population for substance abuse and violence. This study will describe the relation between a psychoactive substance (alcohol and illicit drugs) and violence among this population. More specifically, we will look at: a) intoxication periods; b) the need for money to buy drugs; and c) the illicit drug distribution system in the manifestation of violent behaviour among young Canadian offenders. The data referred to in this article is based on a questionnaire administered to 239 young male offenders in rehabilitation centres in Quebec and 162 young male offenders in similar facilities in Ontario, irrespective of the offence for which they were being held. Of the three types of relations studied, intoxication seems to be the most important factor leading to violence. It should be noted that a significant portion of crimes associated to psychoactive substances are related to more than one substance. Possible interpretations are suggested.