Heroin Use in the Barrio: Solving the Problem of Relapse or Keeping the Tecato Gusano Asleep

摘要: The Chicano heroin addict or " tecato belongs to a subculture that profoundly influences behavior and personality. Life-history interviews with subsample of 18 Southern California ex- tecatos who were abstinent from 2.3 24.5 years revealed employ the metaphor an indestructable junkie worm gusano living in their vicera explain relapse, abstinence manner essentially consistent learning theories opioid addiction. study showed use variety coping mechanisms for maintaining avoiding "dangerous situations" which could trigger craving relapse. research also being does not necessarily imply crime free nondeviant lifestyle, process working out addiction involves two complementary social adjustment processes termed (a) extrication (from subculture) (b) accommodation (to square society). Suggestions utilizing these findings treatment intervention purposes are offered.