Apply the Distinction Between an "Essentialist" and a "Constructionist" Approach

question 27

Essay

Apply the distinction between an "essentialist" and a "constructionist" approach to phenomena, spelled out in Chapter 1, to media representations of drug use throughout the twentieth century and into the twenty-first. Is the media depiction of drug use an essentialist or a constructionist approach to drug use?

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Definitions:

Socially Desirable

Pertains to behaviors or responses that are seen as favorable by society and are thus more likely to be expressed by individuals.

Social Desirability Bias

The tendency of survey respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others.

Socially Approved

Regarded or accepted by society as being correct, appropriate, or beneficial.

Selfish Manner

Acting with concern for one's own welfare or advantage at the expense of or without regard for others.