SWM5240 - Drug and alcohol policy and practice

Leader: Dr Phillip Mendes

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Caulfield Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

In the last decade, drug and alcohol practice/policies have comprised a hotly contested political terrain. The major ideological divide is between those who favour the extension of harm minimization policies, and those who seek a return to prohibitionist or zero tolerance policies. Attention is drawn to the implications of this debate for both policy debates and treatment approaches. A range of sociological and psychological explanations of drug use will be explored. Current research in relation to prevention, early intervention and treatment approaches are examined and the experiences and treatment needs of specific groups (women, young people and clients with a dual diagnosis) analysed.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Understand the influence of ideas and ideologies, lobby groups, and global pressures and trends on drug and alcohol practice and policy debates in Australia and/or their own community;
2. Critically examine contemporary substance abuse policies and outcomes;
3. Discuss and analyse a range of sociological and psychological theories of drug use;
4. Understand current research trends and outcomes in relation to prevention, early intervention and treatment approaches;
5. Critically analyse the response of the social services field to the treatment needs of specific groups of drug users.

Assessment

One essay from three options, 3,500 words (40%), a second essay from two options 3,500 words (40%), a third essay 2,000 words (20%)