This upper-level undergraduate course will examine the complex interplay between biological, psychological, familial, social and cultural factors as they relate to addictive behaviors.  Although the focus will be on alcohol and other drugs and their effects on mind, body, family and community, other pervasive and potentially addictive behaviors such as gambling and eating will be covered.  The course is designed to convey basic information about licit and illicit drugs as well as introduce the student to the prominent theoretical models and clinical methods for assessing and treating addictions.  While it is an introductory course that provides much content in this specialized field, it is not designed to train students to become substance abuse counselors.

Specifically, students will demonstrate content knowledge about:

• the history, prevalence, effects, and medical uses of various types of legal (e.g., alcohol and nicotine) and illegal (e.g., crack) drugs
• the biology and brain neurochemistry as they relate to drug use and addiction
• behaviors that do not involve ingestion of drugs (gambling, sex) yet may become problematic and compulsive
• main concepts from each of several theories that seek to explain the etiology, maintenance and treatment of addiction
• the prominent assessment and treatment approaches used by substance abuse professionals
• medications used to treat psychiatric and addictive disorders

• understand more about the pervasiveness and complexity of drug use in our culture
• critically evaluate research and press reports regarding drugs and addictive behaviors
• identify harmful patterns of alcohol and other drug use, and be aware of prevention and treatment resources that exist in the community
• describe the content and process of community-based self-help groups

Prerequisite Course: PSY 2013 - General Psychology

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