ABSTRACT
In Chapter 4, many models and theories were put forward to explain why people use or misuse psychoactive substances and about the causes of substance. The theories provide explanations for the initiation into substance misuse or for why individuals begin to use drugs and the process of addiction. It is apparent that no single theory is sufficient to explain substance use and misuse per se, and that a range of ‘risk factors’ has to be considered. This chapter examines the drug experience, why people take drugs, the pattern of use and misuse and the routes of drug administration.
