PSY 418 Psychology of Substance Abuse (SS)

Substance abuse is one of the fastest-growing and most potentially destructive phenomena of contemporary life. In this course, students will learn about the theoretical models that attempt to explain the causes, contributing factors, and solutions to substance abuse among various populations, including adolescents, the elderly, and various cultural, social, and ethnic groups.

Credits

5

Outcomes

1. This course will prepare students to:
2. Demonstrate understanding the adverse conditions associated with substance abuse.
3. Establish an awareness of local resources, such as treatment centers, recovery homes, support groups, etc.
4. Explain the basic patterns of drug distribution within the body.
5. Explain ways of classifying drugs and addictive substances.
6. Describe the current methods and models of research on and treatment of addictions.
7. Demonstrate understanding of the roles of professionals working with people addicted to various substances.
8. Evaluate the ways gender, ethnicity, age, and other personal characteristics influence the experience of addictions treatment
9. Evaluate the impact of addictions on individual, family, and society