The Boost is a film which provides an example of the types of problems which result from the abuse of cocaine. The story concerns a salesman named Lenny Brown (played by James Woods), who gets involved in cocaine after being introduced to it by a friend. In the course of time, cocaine becomes the most important thing to Lenny and as a result he loses everything that had previously been important to him. First, he loses a great job with fringe benefits after stealing money from his boss in order to pay for his habit. Later, he loses an opportunity for a second chance when the drug causes him to become violent with his potential business partners. Finally, Lenny loses his wife Linda (played by Sean Young) when he beats her up and she is forced to seek refuge from him. At the end of the film, Lenny is shown complaining about all his losses; however, it is also obvious that cocaine is still more important to him than anything else.
The reasons for Lenny's behavior can be explained by examining the abnormal psychology surrounding substance abuse. Many psychological studies have focused on the patterns which exist in pathological cocaine use. These studies show why people get into using cocaine in the first place. Most people are attracted to the drug because it gives them a temporary feeling of euphoria and physical energy, as well as a feeling of confidence. Because of these factors, many people who are driven to be successful in business are attracted to the drug. This is the case with Lenny, who is desperately trying to succeed as a salesman and thinks that "the boost" from cocaine will give him the confidence and energy he needs. Other studies have shown the side effects which occur as a result of taking cocaine. For example, people under the influence of cocaine tend to be extremely restless and talkative. In The Boost, when Lenny is introduced to coke for the first time, he is feeling somewhat upset about problems a...