Gasoline addiction in children

Three cases of addiction to the inhalation of gasoline fumes are presented with a discussion of the physiological and dynamic factors involved in such cases. It is believed that the statistical incidence of this behavior is much higher than commonly assumed, but no accurate figures are available because of the lack of an adequate investigation. Also, this behavior may not be revealed in routine pediatric or psychiatric interviews. The predisposing factors in these children, which may lead to future reliance on alcohol or drugs, are discussed.