Final answer:
The goal of harm reduction strategies is not total abstinence but rather to minimize the negative consequences associated with drug use; thus, the statement is false.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the goal of harm reduction strategies is total abstinence on the part of the substance abuser is false. Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use. Harm reduction recognizes that while the optimal outcome might be abstinence, not all individuals are at a point where they can or want to completely abstain from substance use. Instead, harm reduction focuses on minimizing the potential harm of substance abuse, such as advocating for clean needle programs to reduce the risk of disease transmission or providing education on safer drug use practices.