Leader: Dr Penelope Hasking

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2008 (Flexible)

Synopsis

The unit gives students an overview of issues related to addictive behaviours. While the primary emphasis is on substance use, behavioural addictions such as gambling are also addressed. Students are introduced to problems in defining addiction and will be introduced to a range of theories which attempt to explain addictive behaviours. Consideration to the research methodologies used to study addiction in humans will be given. Issues relating to treatment of addictive behaviours will be introduced including prevention of addictive behaviours, assessment and various treatment options available. Students will be introduced to drug policy options in Australia and around the world.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will have the ability to:

1. discuss the complexities in defining addiction, and the many behaviours which may come under this heading;
2. critique competing theories of addictive behaviour;
3. critique completing policy options;
4. discuss specific issues facing particular groups of substance users and situate these issues in a broader social context; and
5. evaluate the evidence for various models for preventing and treating addictive behaviours.

Assessment

Group presentation: 20%
Essay (2500 words): 30%
Examination: 50%

Prerequisites

PSY1011, PSY1022 and PSY2031