Transcript Case Study: Meth Epidemic Video (PBS Frontline, 2006)

Case Study: Meth Epidemic Video
(PBS Frontline, 2006)
• History of methamphetamine use and
distribution in U.S.
• Example of “sociological imagination:”
applying societal level analysis to
individual problem (meth addiction)
• Reporter for The Oregonian analyzed
trends in rehab rates – found similarities in
all states
Case Study: Meth Epidemic Video
(PBS Frontline, 2006)
• Drug addiction is individual problem, yet
rates are consistent and predictable at state
level
• Rates coincided with purity of meth
produced
• Purity depended on access to ephedrine
– Small operations – used cold medications
– “super” labs – bought directly from drug
manufacturers
– Increased drug companies’ profits
Case Study: Meth Epidemic Video
(PBS Frontline, 2006)
• Meth use was social problem in Oregon
– 85% of property crime
– 50% of kids in foster care: parents were
addicts
– Children exposed to chemicals, worked in labs
• DEA was given little support to fight it
– Drug companies were making big profits
– Globalization of trade – Mexico, Canada, India
– When supply of materials was cut in U.S., drug
cartels bought from other countries
Case Study: Meth Epidemic Video
(PBS Frontline, 2006)
• Concepts illustrated by this video
– Theories that fit: strain, rational choice,
conflict
– Increase in incarceration rates – due to
drugs?
– Organized crime – powerful, interconnected
with legitimate institutions
– Globalization of crime, economic impact of
crime