This course introduces the subject of alcoholism. The chemistry and psycho-pharmacological effects of alcohol on the brain and body are introduced. Alcoholism as a progressive disease and a family disease is discussed. The history, principles, practices and contributions of 12-Step programs and “self-help” Groups, such as AA, NA, ACOA and Al-Anon, are reviewed. Other treatment options are explored.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate an undesrtanding of:

1. Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD) use and abuse.
2. The brain and other body parts react to ATOD ingestion.
3. ATOD pharmacology and interaction of ATOD with other medications.
4. The nature of addiction.
5. The natural history of alcoholism and other drug dependence.
6. Genetic factors that may contribute to dependence.
7. The Biological, Psychological and Social model of addiction.
8. History of alcohol and other drugs.
8. Terms and concepts related to theory, research and proactive of treatment approaches.
10. Basic concepts of social, political, economic and cultural systems and their impact on drug-taking activity.
11. Risk and protection factors that characterize individuals and groups and their living environments.
12. The continuum of addiction services, prevention, treatment, recovery and relevant levels of intervention and care.
13. The continuum of drug use to include initiation; intoxication; harmful use; abuse; dependence; withdrawal; relapse and recovery.