Work

Navigating opioid overdose risks in a vulnerable social network

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study uses mixed methods social network analysis (MMSNA) to examine the concentration of opioid overdoses among highly vulnerable people embedded in an administrative proxy network in an overdose hot spot. Descriptive network analyses are used to understand the contours of individual and relational overdose risk in an administrative proxy network of people who use and sell opioids. Interviews with market participants are then used to understand the strategies used to mitigate individual risk of death. People who use and sell both develop interactional rules and cultural scripts as prophylactic measures that are tragically limited in preventing unwanted consequences from continued opioid use.

Source: Social Science & Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2026.119613

Authors: Anthony A. Braga, Andrew V. Papachristos, Brandon S. Turchan, Brian Wade, Benjamin K. Struhl

Institutions: University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, Michigan State University

Language: English

Topic: Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,800