SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #2 Final Exam, Post University, 2025

                SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #2 Final Exam

Why does there appear to be a misplaced emphasis on minorities? Are there specific federal drug laws that have targeted racial and ethnic minorities? What have been some of the short term and long-term consequences of these policies?  

 

This is a very complex topic. There are several federal drugs laws that have affected groups of people throughout the country who choose to use drugs and while not mentioning specific groups of people in the laws. Again, people make the choice to use drugs based on a wide variety of socio-economic factors including where the live, who they associate with and how they were raised. I think the difference is what the law intends to be about and what people want the laws to be about. The laws are neutral, but the local populations might want them to say something else. 

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970: 

• This act placed cannabis under Schedule I, effectively outlawing all uses and setting the stage for the "War on Drugs". 
• Some critics argue that the initial targeting of cannabis was based on racist motivations, impacting Latino and Black communities disproportionately who choose to use these drugs 

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986: 

• This act established a 100:1 sentencing disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine. 
• Because crack cocaine was more prevalent in Black communities and powder cocaine in white communities, this disparity resulted in significantly longer sentences for Black individuals convicted of drug offenses. Again, they choose to use the specific drugs.  

Mandatory Minimum Sentencing: 

• Mandatory minimum sentences, often enacted in conjunction with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986, removed judicial discretion and imposed predetermined sentences based on drug type and quantity. 

SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #1 Final Exam, Post University 2025

                    SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #1 Final Exam

Please discuss the racial and ethnic inequalities related to drug laws. What is the research related to minorities being unfairly targeted related to drug laws, policy, and or incarceration? 

Personally, I don’t believe that certain minorities are specifically targeted by the color of their skin or ethnic background. I believe that many factors affect whether a person chooses to use drugs which include how they are raised and who they choose to associate with. People make the choice to use drugs and break the law. Others choose not to, and I don’t believe those factors are based on the color of their skin or background.  

Socio-economic Factors and Drug-Related Crime: 

Poverty and Lack of Opportunity: Poverty, lack of access to education, and limited employment opportunities can contribute to involvement in drug-related activities, both in terms of use and sale, as individuals may turn to drugs as a coping mechanism or engage in drug dealing for economic survival.  

Neighborhood Factors: Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with high rates of poverty and crime can expose individuals to environments where drug use and trafficking are more prevalent.  

Health and Mental Health Disparities: Lack of access to affordable healthcare and mental health services can lead to substance use disorders and related criminal behavior, further exacerbating disparities 

 

The Intersection of Socio-economic Factors and Race: 

• Systemic Inequality: Historical and ongoing systemic racism has created and perpetuated economic and social disparities, placing communities of color at a disadvantage.  
• Cycle of Disadvantage: The impacts of discriminatory policies like the "War on Drugs" have disproportionately harmed communities of color, exacerbating poverty, limiting opportunities, and contributing to higher rates of drug-related arrests and incarceration.  
• Compounding Factors: Racial bias in law enforcement and the criminal justice system can compound the negative impacts of poverty and limited opportunities, leading to a cycle of disadvantage. 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs: Unit 8: Applying Knowledge, POST University, 2025

                     SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs: Unit 8: Applying Knowledge

 

After completing this course how will you apply your knowledge moving forward? How will you view and work with individuals who have substance abuse issues? What was the most influential topic discussed? How will the topics analyzed in this course be applied in your personal and professional life?  

I really enjoyed this course, and I am glad that they are considered important enough topics to talk about. I was surprised by the vast amount of information on all the topics, and I am glad to find a vast amount of information that is available to help people with drug and alcohol abuse.  

Having grown up in San Francisco and lived in the Bay Area all my life, I am completely aware of the ongoing issues of drug abuse that is associated with many issues like homelessness and criminal activity. However, I do know that drug abuse is not an issue with only people who lack money and a place to live. I have very clear memories of famous people like Janis Joplin and John Belushi and Jim Morrison who all died of drug and alcohol addiction despite ongoing attempts to help them. I am glad this course brought up that drug and alcohol abuse is also a problem with people who have everything and still choose to abuse drugs and alcohol.  

I was thrilled to read about Narcan and how accessible it is made to the public, including even through local pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS. I am glad to see that national companies are joining in to help and do their part to help with drug addiction.  

I was glad to read that Alameda County where I live is very active in working with people who need help with drug and alcohol abuse. 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7: Alcohol and Tobaco Policy, POST University 2025

                 SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7: Alcohol and Tobaco Policy

 

Alcohol and tobacco have a long history with the United States and our government.  Please discuss the social and governmental roles in the legalization and regulation of these products. Why are each of these products legalized? How are they regulated? What are some of the regulations? Are they effective?  What are the specific alcohol and tobacco laws for the state in which you reside? Please provide specific examples of how social views of alcohol and tobacco helped shape policy federally and locally. 

In California, both alcohol and drug regulations are primarily managed by state agencies. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control regulates the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages. Similarly, the California Health and Safety Code governs the possession, use, and sale of controlled substances, with schedules and penalties for different drugs. 

Alcohol Regulation: 

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is responsible for regulating the alcohol industry. 

This includes licensing businesses that sell or manufacture alcohol, as well as enforcing laws related to alcohol consumption, including underage drinking and public intoxication. 

The ABC also handles matters related to alcohol taxes, as it was originally tasked with administering the alcohol tax laws after Prohibition. 

Drug Regulation: 

The California Health and Safety Code outlines the legal status of various drugs, including Schedule 1, 2, and other categories. 

For example, heroin is considered a Schedule 1 substance, making it illegal to possess. 

Possession of certain drugs can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony, with varying penalties based on the quantity and nature of the drug. 

There are also laws regarding the sale and trafficking of controlled substances, with stiffer penalties for those activities. 

Penalties for drug offenses can include fines, probation, and prison sentences, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. 

In California, public opinion on alcohol and drug regulation is complex and varies across different aspects, from recreational use to driving under the influence (DUI). While there's a general support for regulations aimed at public safety, like DUI laws, there's also a debate around the legalization and regulation of recreational marijuana. 

The public views on alcohol and drug regulation are multifaceted, with some aspects being widely supported (like DUI laws) and others being more divisive (like the legalization of recreational marijuana). There's a general desire for regulations that prioritize public safety and minimize harm, but also a need to balance those concerns with individual rights and the potential economic benefits of legalization. 

I personally believe that the difference in opinions on drugs and alcohol, which also helps to regulate the government, is whether someone is going to make money off the sale of the products. If they will make money through taxes or direct sales, they will, of course, want to support the sale. If you are on another end like the police, social services and hospitals, you are the ones cleaning up all the messes left by the use of drugs and alcohol.  

“Drinking in Public California – Is it illegal? 

It is generally illegal to drink in public in California outside of a licensed venue such as a bar, restaurant or tavern. 

State and local laws make it an infraction to possess an open container of alcohol in public and a misdemeanor for a minor to possess any alcohol in public. It is also a misdemeanor to be so intoxicated that you are unable to care for your own safety. 

However now that Senate Bill 969 passed, California cities and counties will be allowed in 2025 to designate local “entertainment zones” in which you could drink on public streets and sidewalks.” (Shouse, N., 2024) 

 

References: 

Shouse, N., 2024, Shouse California Law Group, Drinking in Public California. Is it Legal, https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/drinking-in-public-california/ 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7 Assignment: Naloxone (Narcan) In Your Community, Post University, 2025

                                         Narcan in Alameda County and California: 

How Accessible is the Product and What are the Regulations?  

 

Jackie Phillips 

Sociology, Post University  

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7 Assignment: 

Naloxone (Narcan) In Your Community 

AJ Roy 

Due Date: 11:59 pm EST on Sunday of Unit 7  

Overview:  

Naloxone, brand name Narcan, is an opioid overdose medication. It has been around since the 1970’s but has been more frequently used since the outbreak of the opioid epidemic. There have also been a number of policy changes regarding this medication, that have helped save lives.  

Instructions:  

Please describe how and why Narcan works? 

Narcan is the brand name for naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. It works by rapidly and temporarily blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, helping to restore normal breathing in someone experiencing an overdose. 

“What Does Narcan Spray Do? 

Narcan nasal spray reverses the effects of opioid overdose after one or several doses are given. The medication comes in a canister containing a single dose of naloxone. A healthcare provider or pharmacist should explain to you how to administer Narcan spray. Generally, one dose is given every two to three minutes into alternating nostrils until the person becomes responsive or an EMT arrives. Call 911 as soon as the first dose of Narcan is given, and remain with the person until medical help arrives, even if the individual becomes responsive.” (Scioli, A., 2025) 

 

Discuss the trends and statistics on Narcan use in your state or community.  

Statistics: 

Overdose Deaths: 

Alameda County experienced 355 overdose deaths in 2022, a significant increase from 2020. 

Fentanyl contributed significantly to the rise in fatal overdoses in Alameda County, accounting for roughly 63% of deadly overdoses in 2022. 

In 2021, there were 358 unintentional and unknown intent drug overdose deaths countywide, with 146 involving people with a known recent history of homelessness.  

 

Naloxone Reversals: 

In Alameda County, an estimated 300 lives have been saved through the use of naloxone. 

The Overdose Prevention and Education Naloxone Distribution (OPEND) project reported 137 overdose reversals among the 500 individuals they trained.  

Emergency Services Data: 

The Alameda County Emergency Medical Services Division treated over 4,436 patients with naloxone in the last five years. 

“Local coalitions are trying to change this perception by increasing awareness of opioid use, reducing the number of opioid prescriptions given in the county, and increasing access to naloxone. They see their work as “bending the demand curve” by showing the real risk to benefit ratio of taking opioids for any reason.” (No author given, 2025) 

 

Is Narcan easily accessible in your community?  

Where to get naloxone. Buy naloxone (brand name NARCAN) nasal spray over-the-counter at CVS Pharmacy® without a prescription in all states and in Washington, D.C. If you would like to buy over-the-counter naloxone at your local CVS Pharmacy location, simply ask a front store associate or pharmacy team member. 

“Help save a life with naloxone 

CVS Pharmacy is dedicated to offering products and resources to help support building safer communities, and we’ve worked to increase access to naloxone. 

Naloxone is an antidote to opioid overdoses. You can now buy over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray. It’s also available nationwide at the pharmacy without an individual prescription.” (No Author Given, 2025) 

 

Is it safe?  

Naloxone is a safe and life-saving medication used in emergency situations to reverse opioid overdoses. If you suspect an opioid overdose, do not hesitate to administer naloxone, even if you are uncertain, as it will not cause harm and may save a life. 

Reverses Opioid Overdose:  

Naloxone rapidly reverses the effects of opioids in the body, restoring normal breathing and consciousness during an opioid overdose.  

 

No Harm If No Opioids:  

If someone is experiencing a different type of medical emergency (like a diabetic issue or cardiac arrest) or doesn't have opioids in their system, naloxone will not cause additional harm or have any effect.  

Non-Addictive:  

Naloxone itself is not a controlled substance and has no potential for abuse or addiction.  

Over-the-counter Availability:  

The FDA has approved some naloxone products, including Narcan nasal spray, for over-the-counter (OTC) sale, indicating a high level of safety and ease of use. 

 

If someone needed to get Narcan where would they get it and how much would it cost?  

“How much does OTC Narcan (naloxone) cost? 

OTC Narcan is available for less than $50 for each twin pack. 

Brand-name Narcan is just under $50 for two doses, but the cost can vary depending on whether you get it from a pharmacy, a big-box store, or another retailer. You can also purchase Narcan online. At the time of publication, CVS and Walgreens were selling this medication for $44.99 per two-dose box.” (Madison, B., 2024) 

 

What were the policies you found regarding Narcan?  

California has several policies and laws in place to increase access to and use of naloxone (commonly known as Narcan) to help prevent opioid overdose deaths. Here's a summary:  

1. Access to Naloxone: 

Standing Order: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a statewide standing order that allows certain organizations to obtain and distribute naloxone without an individual prescription. This facilitates wider access in community settings.  

Pharmacists can furnish naloxone: California pharmacists can dispense naloxone without a prescription, following a statewide protocol.  

Over-the-Counter (OTC): Narcan (naloxone nasal spray) is available for purchase over-the-counter at pharmacies and other retailers without a prescription. 

2. Good Samaritan Law Protections: 

Administering Naloxone: Individuals who, in good faith, administer naloxone to someone experiencing or suspected of experiencing an opioid overdose, and who have completed training, are protected from civil, criminal, and professional liability.  

Seeking Medical Assistance: California's 911 Good Samaritan law protects individuals who seek emergency medical assistance for themselves or another person experiencing a drug-related overdose from arrest and prosecution for certain drug-related offenses. 

3. Workplace Requirements: 

Naloxone in First Aid Kits: California requires employers to stock naloxone in their first aid kits.  

Regulations by Cal/OSHA: Cal/OSHA is in the process of enacting regulations requiring employers to include Narcan or other FDA-approved opioid antagonists in workplace first aid supplies. 

Insurance Coverage: California law requires health insurance plans to cover naloxone without cost-sharing 

References 

 

Madison, B., 2024, GoodRX, How Much Does Narcan Cost, https://www.goodrx.com/narcan/how-much-is-narcan-otc 

 

No Author Given, 2025, CVS Pharmacy, Overdose Awareness, https://www.cvs.com/content/overdose-awareness/naloxone#:~:text=Where%20to%20get%20naloxone,associate%20or%20pharmacy%20team%20member 

 

No author given, 2025, New America, Case Study, Alameda County, California, https://www.newamerica.org/pit/reports/mapping-opioid-epidemic/case-study-alameda-county-california/ 

 

Scioli, A., 2025, Caron Transformational Center, Narcan: What it Does and How it Works,  

https://www.caron.org/blog/narcan-what-it-does-and-how-it-works 

 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 6.2: Substance Abuse Treatment and Social Class, Post University, 2025

 SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 6.2: Substance Abuse Treatment and Social Class

 

Do famous and wealthy individuals partake in the same substance abuse treatment as disadvantaged populations? Are there any similarities or differences? Are the treatments any more or less effective?  

“Statistics indicate that alcohol use can increase in higher income groups. Alcohol use is more common among upper-class, highly educated Americans:

About 80% of upper-income survey respondents reported drinking alcohol, compared with approximately 50% of lower-income respondents. 

Approximately 78% of individuals with an income of $75,000 or more reported that they drink, compared with 45% of individuals with an income of $30,000 or less. 

About 80% of college graduates reported that they drink, compared with 52% of those who had a high-school education or less. 

Altogether, 64% of American adults from all income categories reported that they use alcohol.” (Close, L., 2024) 

Also, discuss if substance abuse treatment is viewed as appropriate use of resources regardless of social class and wealth. 

There are addiction professionals and treatment centers that devote themselves to meet the particular needs of wealthy individuals far beyond the scope of five-start accommodations and amenities, with a greater focus on privacy and understanding of family dynamics, financial matters, values, lifestyle, mindset, stigma. 

“Help is available for everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status.  Addiction treatment providers are increasingly becoming more multiculturally competent and aware of the unique needs of various groups of people, including the uber wealthy.  There are addiction professionals and treatment centers that devote themselves to meet the particular needs of wealthy individuals far beyond the scope of five-start accommodations and amenities, with a greater focus on privacy and understanding of family dynamics, financial matters, values, lifestyle, mindset, stigma and shame, and other such important considerations of the treatment process.” (Sternlicht, A., 2025) 

 

What does society tend to think when a wealthy or famous person goes to treatment versus a disadvantaged individual? 

Wealthy individuals who need help for their addiction may question their own identity and be resistant to receiving treatment. Wealthy individuals often carry great shame about their mental health or addiction related issues. A significant barrier that often prevents wealthy individuals from seeking help is the stigma associated with addiction. Society often views substance use disorders as a sign of moral failure or lack of willpower, rather than a health issue. 

 

References: 

Close, L., 2024, American Addiction Centers, Drug & Alcohol Addiction Among Socioeconomic Groups, https://adcare.com/addiction-demographics/socioeconomic-groups/ 

Sternlicht, A., 2025, Family Addiction Specialist, More Money and More Problems, https://www.familyaddictionspecialist.com/blog/more-money-more-problems-wealthy-individuals-are-suffering-from-addiction-at-alarming-rates#:~:text=There%20are%20addiction%20professionals%20and,values%2C%20lifestyle%2C%20mindset%2C%20stigma