SW 6992 - Dynamics of Addiction: Social/Psychological/Neurochemical

This course is an overview of models of addiction, the psychodynamics and psychosocial factors of addiction, special populations and lifespan, basic neurochemistry and pharmacology of the major relevant psychoactive drugs and psychiatric medications. The course is taught through the use of reading assignments, large group lecture and discussion, and small group case discussions. Upon completion of the course each student will gain new knowledge and understanding of social and psychological factors of addiction as well as the drugs that are addictive or are used abusively in our society. Students will learn about basic brain and genetic mechanisms aw well as the pharmacological and toxicological aspects of drug abuse and addiction. Finally, students will understand the importance of knowledge about these drugs as they relate to different client populations or groups of people.