Symbolic Meanings Attributed to Drugs by Drug Dealers

The present study explores the symbolic meanings a group of illicit drug dealers give to drugs. We do so by analyzing interviews with 33 individuals actively involved in selling a range of drugs including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, crack-cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, methamphetamine, and various pharmaceuticals. Specifically, we explore the meanings these individuals give to drugs themselves, rather than the meanings they give to the use or sale of drugs. Such an examination is important because the meanings dealers give to drugs can shape dealers' drug-related decisions and their own self-views. We find that these individuals not only viewed drugs as market products but also as symbolizing their personal and social identities. Additionally, drugs could embody risk for the dealers, act as a means of social control, or represent nontraditional currency. Finally, the absence of drugs fronted to others was viewed by the dealers as a sign of disrespect. We discuss implications for drug control policy, decision-making theoretical frameworks such as deterrence and rational choice, and for understanding of social supply markets of illicit drugs.