Oct 05, 2024  
2023-2024 Official General Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

ASA 234 - Psychology of Addictions


This course provides an overview of the psychology of addictive and compulsive behaviors, psychophysiological mechanisms in the brain and the impact of these behaviors on an individual’s global functioning.  The course examines the problematic use of alcohol and other drugs, and compulsive behaviors such as eating, gambling and sex.  This course explores the impact of these behaviors on the individual, the family, and society as a whole.

Prerequisite- Corequisite
Prerequisite:  PSY 110 General Psychology or permission of instructor

Credits: 3
Hours
3 Class Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

  1. Describe and apply the concept of addiction and how the problematic use of substances and compulsive behaviors impact the individual, family and society and corresponding interventions.
  2. Analyze current and historical views on addiction, substance use disorders and other problematic/compulsive behaviors and how they are shaped by culture and media.
  3. Describe and apply how the central nervous system and other bodily systems are affected by the use of various substances and how the reward centers of the brain are involved in compulsive behaviors.