Reading Assignment for Section 6.4

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 6.4: Harm Reduction Strategies.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll explore harm reduction as a public health-focused approach to minimizing the risks of drug use. You’ll learn about key strategies like needle exchange programs, naloxone distribution, and supervised injection sites, as well as their benefits for individuals and communities. By the end, you’ll understand the challenges these programs face and how law enforcement plays an evolving role in harm reduction efforts.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 6.4: Harm Reduction Strategies

• SLO 1: Define harm reduction and explain its principles, focusing on minimizing the negative consequences of drug use and prioritizing public health over punitive measures.
• SLO 2: Identify and describe key harm reduction strategies, including needle exchange programs, supervised injection sites, naloxone distribution, and fentanyl testing kits, and their impact on individuals and communities.
• SLO 3: Evaluate the public health benefits of harm reduction strategies, such as reducing overdose deaths, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and improving community safety.
• SLO 4: Analyze criticisms and controversies surrounding harm reduction programs, including concerns about enabling drug use, public safety, and stigma, and propose ways to address these challenges.
• SLO 5: Discuss the evolving role of law enforcement in harm reduction, including the implementation of naloxone programs, diversion initiatives, and partnerships with public health agencies.

You are welcome to print a copy of pages from this Open Educational Resource (OER) book for your personal use. Please note that mass distribution, commercial use, or the creation of altered versions of the content for distribution are strictly prohibited. This permission is intended to support your individual learning needs while maintaining the integrity of the material.

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