Michael G. Vaughn

This book is rooted in the conviction that human biology plays a critical role in understanding drug abuse and antisocial behavior. In the same breath, however, it fundamentally affirms the importance of the many social and environmental factors that influence our behavior across the life course. The study begins with an overview of the scope of the problem of drug abuse and crime, and an examination of how these problems often feed into one another. Building upon that foundation, the focus shifts to a review of cutting-edge research on the genetics and neurobiology of addiction and antisocial behavior across the developmental periods of childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. An exploration of the implications of a biosocial life course approach in terms of drug abuse prevention, and an examination of what lies ahead for drug abuse and criminological research conclude this detailed and timely book. Policy makers, practitioners and scholars of criminology and sociology will find this of particular interest.

A unique approach to human behavior that integrates and interprets the latest research from cell to society Incorporating principles and findings from molecular biology, neuroscience, and psychological and sociocultural sciences, Human Behavior employs a decidedly integrative biosocial, multiple-levels-of-influence approach. This approach allows students to appreciate the transactional forces shaping life course opportunities and challenges among diverse populations in the United States and around the world. Human Behavior includes case studies, Spotlight topics, and Expert's Corner features that augment the theme of each chapter. This book is rooted in the principles of empirical science and the evidence-based paradigm, with coverage of: Genes and behaviorStress and adaptationExecutive functionsTemperamentPersonality and the social work professionSocial exchange and cooperationSocial networks and psychosocial relationsTechnologyThe physical environmentInstitutionsBelief systems and ideology Unique in its orientation, Human Behavior proposes a new integrative perspective representing a leap forward in the advancement of human behavior for the helping professions.

There has been a surge of recent interest by social work researchers in conducting research in criminal and juvenile justice settings. This is largely fueled by the tremendous increase in incarceration over the last several decades, with millions more in probation or parole at any given time. Rising expenditures strain state and local budgets and many individuals are spending much of their adolescence and young adulthood in correctional facilities. Despite the profound impact that the criminal justice system has on client populations served by social workers and related professions, there are few practical resources available to guide research in these settings. This Pocket Guide fills a critical gap in the literature by providing state-of-the-art techniques for researchers, graduate students, and agency administrators. Research in criminal justice settings represents unique challenges that require rigorous designs and a suite of methods, as well as the tools to navigate a complex system. With this accessible and practical guide, readers will encounter a wide range of study types and data sources, along with strengths and weaknesses to consider with each as they conceptualize, implement, and analyze their research. Crucially, the authors also provide advice on how to gain and manage access to these settings, as well as templates for preparing a successful Institutional Review Board application. Step-by-step procedures elucidate the use of extant and administrative data, and practical case examples, sample forms, and measures will help researchers implement their studies quickly and effectively.