Tuesday, February 26, 2008

My thoughts on Resistol

I agree with the majority of points made by my classmates in the two previous posts on Resistol; however I believe that the situation in Honduras has spiraled out of control and for change to occur it must include a holistic approach to the problem. The problem is twofold, trying to modify current behaviors that are rooted in social and economic problems, but also the need to make changes to prevent future children from this addictive behavior.

I do not believe that one solution will solve the glue sniffing. Education, product modification, changes in legislation, community relations strategies and determining root causes all have a role in changing the current substance abuse situation. While I do not advocate adding a known carcinogen to the glue, Fuller might consider looking in to other additives other than oil of mustard that would have less negative side effects. If the smell were able to be changed safely, this may deter children from starting to sniff glue as well as deter the less addicted children. While it is possible that children might switch to other substances this would be a critical time to push education and behavior modification. While Beto also used politics and government to assist, he was unsuccessful in getting legislation that he supported approved. The Honduran government has a major responsibility in curbing controlled substance abuse in their youth, but from the case it appears that the government has lots of turnover and stability issues.

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