Students investigate the neurobiological basis of addiction and the neural, psychological, and pharmacological effects of a variety of addictive substances. They examine the cellular and molecular processes involved in chemical neurotransmission, focusing on the key neurotransmitter systems involved in the production of goal-directed behaviours. They then explore how the consumption of addictive substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, psychomotor stimulants, psychedelics, cannabinoids, and opioids affect these neurotransmitter systems and their regulation of mental and behavioural states. In doing so, students critically analyze how different neurobiological models of addiction interact with social, economic, and cultural factors to influence public perceptions and attitudes regarding addiction, addiction treatments, and public health. Prerequisites: PSYC 1110 and PSYC 1210 and completion of 45 credits and one of PSYC 2040 or BIOL 1050 or BIOL 1110 or instructor's written consent.
Students investigate the neurobiological basis of addiction and the neural, psychological, and pharmacological effects of a variety of addictive substances. They examine the cellular and molecular processes involved in chemical neurotransmission, focusing on the key neurotransmitter systems involved in the production of goal-directed behaviours. They then explore how the consumption of addictive substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, psychomotor stimulants, psychedelics, cannabinoids, and opioids affect these neurotransmitter systems and their regulation of mental and behavioural states. In doing so, students critically analyze how different neurobiological models of addiction interact with social, economic, and cultural factors to influence public perceptions and attitudes regarding addiction, addiction treatments, and public health. Prerequisites: PSYC 1110 and PSYC 1210 and completion of 45 credits and one of PSYC 2040 or BIOL 1050 or BIOL 1110 or instructor's written consent.
