Course Description
Designed to help students develop an increased awareness of psychological and social characteristics of drug and alcohol abusers. Causes and effects of drug and alcohol addiction and implications for working with people in human services will be explored.
Athena Title
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Issues
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in SOCI 3860, ECHD 3170
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. Learn about the physical and psychological effects of commonly abused mood-altering substances. 2. Understand and describe the behavioral, psychological, biological, and physiological effects of drugs. 3. Identify sociological and cultural factors that may influence drug/alcohol use and abuse. 4. Recognize multicultural, social, and political issues affecting drug and alcohol treatment. 5. Develop an informed opinion on the role of alcohol and drug use in society. 6. Students will discuss their views and opinions on alcohol issues. 7. Students will engage in discussions abouat alcohol issues and be able to engage and consider other viewpoints. 8. Students will analyze arguments and gather information to support a consistent point of view in regard to alcohol issues. 9. Students will learn about legal and ethical issues regarding alcohol use. 10. Students will use technology to gather resources on alcohol issues.
Topical Outline
Overview of the course and introduction to drugs and society Drugs and society: Use, abuse, and the law Addiction and treatment The physiology of addiction How drugs work Subcultures and prevention The war on drugs Introduction to individual drugs Alcohol and alcoholism Narcotics Stimulants Tobacco and marijuana Hallucinogens and inhalants Prescription medication, OTCs, and herbal drugs Drug trends in the U.S. Current and pressing issues
Syllabus