The Basics of Addiction

Welcome to “Understanding Addiction,” an introductory class designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of drug and alcohol addiction. This course aims to equip participants with a foundational understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of substance dependency, offering insights into its biological, psychological, and social dimensions.

Course Objectives:

1. Define Addiction:
   • Explore the various definitions of addiction and understand the distinction between substance use, abuse, and dependence.
   • Examine the evolving perspectives on addiction within the fields of psychology, medicine, and sociology.
2. Biological Basis of Addiction:
   • Investigate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction, including the role of neurotransmitters, reward pathways, and the impact of substances on the brain.
   • Explore genetic predispositions and environmental factors contributing to susceptibility to addiction.
3. Psychological Factors:
   • Examine psychological theories of addiction, such as behavioral reinforcement and cognitive models.
   • Investigate the relationship between mental health disorders and substance abuse, addressing the concept of self-medication.
4. Social and Environmental Influences:
   • Analyze the impact of societal norms, cultural factors, and socioeconomic conditions on patterns of substance use and addiction.
   • Explore the role of family dynamics, peer pressure, and social support networks in the development and maintenance of addictive behaviors.
5. Effects of Different Substances:
   • Provide an overview of the major classes of psychoactive substances, their effects on the body and mind, and the potential for addiction.
   • Understand the dangers of polydrug use and the synergistic effects of combining different substances.
6. Treatment Approaches:
   • Survey various modalities of addiction treatment, including behavioral therapies, pharmacological interventions, and holistic approaches.
   • Discuss the challenges and successes associated with rehabilitation and recovery.
7. Prevention and Harm Reduction:
   • Explore strategies for preventing substance abuse and addiction at individual, community, and societal levels.
   • Examine harm reduction approaches, including needle exchange programs, supervised consumption sites, and education campaigns.
8. Legal and Ethical Considerations:
   • Discuss the legal and ethical implications of addiction, including criminalization, stigma, and access to treatment.
   • Explore the evolving landscape of drug policy and its impact on public health.