HSRV 35000 - Drugs And Society

Emphasizes the social, psychological, biological, and cultural contexts in which addiction develops and occurs. Encourages an understanding of substance use, abuse, and addictive behaviors within a larger pattern. For this reason, the course is applicable to anyone who will be in a position in which they must a) work with people on a daily basis, b) provide supervision or support services within an organization, or c) work in any aspect of the helping professions.

Cr. 3.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical changes in social and cultural attitudes toward drugs and alcohol in American society.
2. Understand, apply, and evaluate theories and treatment modalities specific to the substance abuse field.
3. Identify successes and weaknesses in political/legislative policies on abuse and addiction.
4. Develop ability to identify commonly abused substances and their characteristics.
5. Discuss the wide range of beliefs/attitudes about addiction treatment including those presently used in the mental health field and addiction services communities.
6. Connect sociological ideas with real-world phenomena.