Psychology of addiction

What is the course about?

Psychology can't be reduced to the biology of the brain any more than biology (life) can be reduced to a chemical process. Like other complex behaviours, addiction is best understood both in physical and in psychological terms since most addictive acts are triggered by emotionally significant events. This course will look at theories around why some people become addicted while others don’t and it will also focus on treatment for addictions.
Treatment programs are not ‘one size fits all’ so there are different modalities or levels of care. We will consider how different addictions can be understood and look at the success and effectiveness of different treatment methods.

What will we cover?

We will consider important biological factors but there will be more emphasis on social, psychological and emotional factors which are necessary to reach a complete understanding of addiction. Topics covered will include:

The range of addictions such as: drinking alcohol; smoking or drug use; behavioural addictions e.g gambling, eating and using the internet.
How addiction is portrayed and discussed in the media
Treatment methods
How different substances affect the central nervous system.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

1. Describe how different substances affect the central nervous system
2. Name at least three prominent theories of addiction
3. Outline the differences between psychological addiction and physical addiction
4. Discuss current addiction treatment methods.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is a short course and no prior knowledge of addiction is required. The course is designed for professionals who work or want to work in the field of addiction such as social workers, health professionals, counsellors and psychotherapists. You will need to have a fluent level of spoken and written English, be able to follow complex information and take part in group discussions and role play. You will need to listen actively and be prepared to engage in self- reflection.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

As this is an experiential and theory based course you will have the opportunity to learn through discussion, small group work, teaching input and participation in role play as well as discussing personal case studies where appropriate.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No other costs.
A comprehensive pack of handouts will be distributed each day.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You maybe interested in other Psychology courses at City Lit.