Gateway Drugs
Looking at the Definition, Theories, Controversy, and Statistics
Everyone has heard the term gateway drug, and for some it is an accepted theory, yet many still argue if it can be proven.
“Gateway drug; noun: a drug (as alcohol or marijuana) whose use is thought to lead to the use of and dependence on a harder drug (as cocaine or heroin)” (From Merriam-Webster online Dictionary)
This simple and widely accepted definition of the term gateway drug is just part of the story, however. To understand why it causes such controversy, the hypothesis behind the theory must be explored.
The “Gateway Hypothesis” consists of three main elements that are dependent upon each other, defined by Denise B Kandel PhD as “sequencing, association of initiation, and causation”. Sequencing is described as the connection between two drugs (mind or mood altering chemicals) - specifically that one substance precedes another. Association suggests that when one drug is used, it increases the chances that the second will be used in the future. Causation, cited by Dr. Kandel as the most controversial element of the hypothesis, is the theory that the use of the secondary drug was actually caused by the ingestion of the first.
Dr. Kandel explains in her editorial for the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) some of the various research studies that have been done to scientifically determine the existence of a gateway phenomenon, specifically as it applies to marijuana use. She points out, as many skeptics do, that environmental factors (such as the subject’s upbringing, peer relations, etc) have a major effect on the outcome of any study, even those conducted under the strictest conditions. She cites perhaps one of the most compelling human tests of the gateway hypothesis, in which sets of identical twins were closely monitored, pointing out that critics still place environment above substance for causation of subsequent substance use. In addition, she mention the usefulness of animal testing to rule out these peer factors and focus on the chemical process which may cause addictive or drug-seeking behavior.
Despite the controversy, statistics continue to support the theory – whether the phenomenon is caused purely by exposure to the substance, environmental factors, or a combination, it does not seem to matter. According to CASA (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse), a 12-17 year old who drank alcohol and smoked cigarettes even once in the past month is 30 times more likely to use marijuana than one who did not; a child the same age who has used all three drugs in the past months is 17 times more likely to use another harder drug (such as cocaine or heroin). These statistics apply to children who do not already display problem behaviors.
