This subject examines the way different factors interact to produce individual differences in use and abuse of substances ranging from ordinary food to illegal and exotic drugs. Theories across this spectrum are discussed as are the practices of prevention and treatment that arise out of these theories. The major orientation will be social cognition/social learning as a context for the study of motivations relating to the developmental sequence of risky use /dependence /identification with illness. Research on the perceived utility of the substance as it functions in sense of identity (gender as sex-role stereotype). Expectancies from use, and attempts to control use/abuse (restraint over consumption) will focus on the problem of bingeing as a common factor in substance abuse. Eating and drinking problems will be compared.
Students should note that this subject does not contribute to an Australian Psychological Society accredited major in psychology.
HD/FL
One session
School of Psychology
Not available to students who have completed WEL215
* Epidemic, endemic and "therapeutic" concepts of addiction. (The facts compared with the Myths about drug use.) * Theoretical perspectives on the abuse of psychoactive substances (the bio-medical, psychological, psycho-social, socio-cultural dimensions of addiction) * Evidence of current trends in drug use particularly in Australia. Types of drugs and their populations of users * The effects of legislation and prohibition as control mechanisms * Health Promotion and Strategies of prevention * Techniques of assessment * Current methods of intervention, their degree of success/failure * Recent developments regarding the redefinition of the identity of "addict" through the rebuilding of self-esteem through self-control (promotion of the process of becoming de-addicted)
For any enquiries about subject selection or course structure please contact Student Central or ask@csu.edu.au or phone on 1800 275 278.
For further information about Charles Sturt University, or this course offering, please contact info.csu on 1800 275 278 (free call within Australia) or enquire online.
The information contained in the 2018 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: August 2018. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.