PSY-270 Psychology of Addiction
This course will use the Biopsychosocial model to introduce foundational knowledge of drugs of abuse, behavioral addictions, the reasons people begin to use substances and the impact on the brain, physically and psychologically. Topics will include, but not be limited to, epidemiology, the public health impact of substance abuse, diagnosis, other models of addiction, and intervention and treatment approaches.
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Course Outline
Course Description
This course will use the Biopsychosocial model to introduce foundational knowledge of drugs of abuse, behavioral addictions, the reasons people begin to use substances and the impact on the brain, physically and psychologically. Topics will include, but not be limited to, epidemiology, the public health impact of substance abuse, diagnosis, other models of addiction, and intervention and treatment approaches.
Credit Hours
3Course Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the concept of addiction and the connection between addiction and psychology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the various types of addictive behavior and the impact of substance use on the brain and overall well-being.
- Synthesize information to support or refute personal beliefs about addiction.
- Explain the various types of treatment and options for recovery.
Topic Outline
- 1. History of addiction
- 2. Concepts and definitions
- 3. Substance and behavioral addictions, including gaming and the internet
- 4. The brain and addiction
- a. Development of the adolescent brain and the impact of addiction on this process
- 5. Who uses, who becomes addicted, and why
- 6. Models of addiction
- 7. Treatment modalities
- a. Medications for addiction treatment
- b. Psychological approaches
- 8. History and varieties of recovery
- 9. Current research and enduring questions