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"Needle Freaks": Compulsive Self-Injection Drug Users

Published Online:https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.131.3.297

The compulsive use of hypodermic needles as an end in itself is illustrated two case reports. The author explains this behavior in terms of conditioning theory and psychodynamics and explores the possibilities for treatment. He notes that needle use is in many cases an important component in addiction to narcotics, a component whose significance should be recognized by those engaged in the treatment of addiction.

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