Gendered and Non-Gendered Patterns in Methamphetamine Use in China

• In Event: Gendered and Sexualized Patterns in Deviant Behavior

Abstract

Gendered patterns are frequently observed in drug use. This article seeks to investigate the role of gender in methamphetamine use among Chinese users by analyzing 25 in-depth interviews with former methamphetamine users from compulsory rehabilitation institutions and community treatment centers in China. The study identifies the increasing agency of females in drug initiation through their own networks rather than male intimate partners. Additionally, it elucidates the detailed process by which drug-use networks influence their drug use behaviors through direct interactions with drug-using peers in a relatively gender-neutral manner. While both male and female drug users employ various narratives to rationalize their choice and emphasize the functional use of methamphetamine, the underlying motives and purposes for methamphetamine use exhibit distinct gendered characteristics.

Authors

• Serena Yunran Zhang, Aalborg University

• Hua Zhong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong