Relationship between substance “H” and antisocial behavior: A systematic review from forensic psychology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62452/g1hqgg52Keywords:
Drug addiction, antisocial behavior, delinquency, forensic psychologyAbstract
The psychoactive substance known as “H,” derived from heroin, has recently emerged in Guayaquil and is characterized by its variable chemical composition and high addictive potential. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between “H” consumption and antisocial behaviors from a forensic psychology perspective. A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted, using MeSH/DeCS terms and Boolean operators. Out of 3,690 identified articles, only six—authored by Ecuadorian researchers—met the inclusion criteria. None of the studies explicitly examined the link between “H” use and antisocial behavior or delinquency among adolescent users. However, the literature highlights two relevant dimensions: the direct effects of the substance, including neurological symptoms such as irritability, poor impulse control, and hallucinations, as well as social consequences like family conflicts, school dropout, marginalization, and engagement in minor offenses to sustain consumption; and the social stigma faced by users, who are often perceived as dangerous or mentally ill, fostering social resentment and pushing them toward delinquent groups. The findings underscore that “H” consumption represents both a public health and social issue in Guayaquil, where its association with adolescent antisocial behavior is likely mediated by neurological, behavioral, and societal factors, compounded by insufficient institutional support for addiction prevention and treatment.
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