An introduction to the study of addictions, with a specific focus on problematic alcohol and illicit drug use. It introduces students to basic concepts and debates in the addictions field concerning causes, consequences and interventions. Each is examined from four standpoints: the user, society/culture, service providers, and decision/policy makers. Students are invited to question how we know what we know, with an emphasis on the Canadian context. The addictions field is fraught with controversies. This course is designed to assist students with integrating their existing and acquired knowledge and applying it to current debates in a sociologically informed, public health contextualized, and understanding manner. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 6 credit units
An introduction to the study of addictions, with a specific focus on problematic alcohol and illicit drug use. It introduces students to basic concepts and debates in the addictions field concerning causes, consequences and interventions. Each is examined from four standpoints: the user, society/culture, service providers, and decision/policy makers. Students are invited to question how we know what we know, with an emphasis on the Canadian context. The addictions field is fraught with controversies. This course is designed to assist students with integrating their existing and acquired knowledge and applying it to current debates in a sociologically informed, public health contextualized, and understanding manner. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 6 credit units