Question

Media stories on the use of PCP in the 1970s tended to emphasize that the use of the drug would cause the user to:

a) die of a drug overdose.
b) progress to more dangerous drugs.
c) engage in multiple drug use and harm himself or herself as a result.
d) have psychotic episodes and engage in self-destructive behavior.
e) none of the above

Answer 1

Media stories in the 1970s depicted PCP use as leading to psychotic episodes and self-destructive behavior, due to its severe psychological effects and dissociative nature. PCP affects neurotransmitter systems in the brain and can result in addiction, but does not always lead to physical dependence.

Step-by-step explanation:

Media stories in the 1970s on the use of PCP, or Phencyclidine, commonly portrayed the drug as causing users to have psychotic episodes and engage in self-destructive behavior. This representation aligns with the known effects of PCP which can alter states of consciousness and lead to behaviors that are dangerous to oneself and others. PCP can lead to severe psychological effects such as intense hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking, often resembling psychotic episodes. Moreover, the reckless or self-destructive behavior noted with PCP use is due to its dissociative effects, which can create a sensation of being detached from one's self and environment, potentially leading to harm without the user being fully aware of their actions.

The use of psychoactive substances like PCP can result in addiction, which is the compulsive use of a drug despite experiencing negative consequences. PCP's potential for causing addiction is related to its ability to affect neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly acting as an antagonist of the NMDA glutamate receptor. While not always leading to physical dependence, the psychological effects of drugs like PCP can be sufficiently compelling to result in repeated use, despite the risks involved.