Harm Reduction

Definition of Harm Reduction

The Canada social science dictionary [1] provides the following meaning of Harm Reduction: A term often used in the discussion of drug users, prostitutes, etc. Rather than taking a moralistic approach, perhaps focusing on punishment or rehabilitation, the system tries to reduce the harm that comes to such offenders. For example, provide drug users with clean needles, or perhaps with a safe place to shoot-up, or even to provide them with standardized heroin. Or the community could provide a safe area for prostitutes to work, provide free testing for infectious diseases, etc. All of this will reduce harm to the ‘offenders’ but in the long-term should also reduce harm to the community.

Harm Reduction: Resources

Notes and References

• Drislane, R., & Parkinson, G. (2016). (Concept of) Harm Reduction. Online dictionary of the social sciences. Open University of Canada