5941 (v.6) Addiction Studies 501

Area:

School of Psychology

Credits:

25.0

Contact Hours:

4.0

Other:

1 x 4 Hours Weekly

Syllabus:

Foundation descriptive, theoretical and empirical information underlying addiction studies. Drugs and their effects. Processes of drug use Australian and international data and examples. Pharmacological, psychological, familial and social models of explanation for the acquisition of addictive behaviour patterns. The production and supply of alcohol, tobacco, prescription drugs and illicit substances. Age, race, class and gender differentials in drug utilisation. Prohibition and harm reduction.

Unit Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to - Discuss factors that influence the development of attitudes and behaviours relating to drug use, understand the epidemiology of drug use in Australia. Contrast various models used to understand drug use problems. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of what is meant by drug dependence. Recognise commonalities across addiction behaviours. Demonstrate knowledge of harm reduction approaches and the philosophy underpinning them.

Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.

Unit References:

Davies J., (1997), The Myth of Addiction, Amsterdam, Harwood Academic Publishers. Heather N. and Robertson I., (1997), Problem Drinking, 3rd ed., Oxford, Oxford Medical Publications. Krivanek J., (1998), Addictions, Sydney, Allen and Unwin. Orford J., (1985), Excessive Appetites - A Psychological View of Addictions, Chichester, Wiley and Son. Ryder D., Salmon A. and Walker N., (2001), Drug Use and Related Harm - A Delicate Balance, Melbourne, IP Communications. Stewart T., (1987/96), The Heroin Users, Glasgow, Harper Collins. Zinberg N., (1984), Drug, Set and Setting - The Basis for Controlled Intoxicant Use, Yale University Press.

Unit Texts:

Gossop M., (2000), Living With Drugs, 5th ed., Aldershot, Ashgate Publishing. Ryder D., Salmon A. and Walker N., (2001), Drug Use and Related Harm - A Delicate Balance, Melbourne, IP Communications. Wilkinson C.and Saunders B., (1996), Perspectives on Addiction - Making Sense of the Issues, Perth, William Montgomery Pty Ltd.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:

Written Reports (2) 50%. Major Essay 50%. This is by grade/mark assessment.

Year	Location	Period	Internal	Area External	Central External
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 1			Y
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 2			Y