Final answer:
The study indicated that 60% of respondents pictured a black drug user, though African Americans constitute only 12-15% of all monthly drug users, reflecting stereotypes and media portrayal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study in the Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education found that while African Americans constitute 12-15% of all monthly drug users, 60% of respondents pictured a black drug user in the provided multiple-choice question. This perception may be due to stereotypes and media portrayal, which often links drug use with African Americans disproportionately. Moreover, despite the fact that drug use occurs across all demographics, public opinion can be strongly influenced by such stereotypical images.
Surveys and studies often reveal racial biases in how people perceive social issues, including drug use. Notably, African Americans have been found to be disproportionately affected by drug-related arrests and convictions, despite not using drugs at significantly higher rates than other racial groups.