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MPS 615: The Psychology Of Addictions

3 credits

Students will be introduced to a range of theories, research, and treatment approaches for substance use disorders. Emphasis will be placed on the application of technique from the initial interview to development of treatment methods. Socio-cultural aspects of substance use disorders will be integrated into discussions.

Learning Goals

THE COURSE WILL SURVEY DATA REFERRING TO DRUG USE AND MOTIVATIONAL CONCERNS. A DISCUSSION OF THE NEUROBIOLOGY OF ADDICTION. WE WILL THEN DISCUSS THE PHARMACOLOGY OF THE MAJOR TYPES OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT BACKGROUND FOR THE CONCEPTUAL MODELS AND PSYCHOTHERAPUTIC APPROACHES THAT ARE THE MAIN FOCUS OF THE COURSE. WE WILL REVIEW THE 4 MAJOR ETIOLOGICAL MODLES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADDICTION. WE WILL REVIEW TREATMENT MODLES: DISEASE MODEL, TWELVE STEP FACILITATION, THE LEARNING MODEL AND COGNITIIVE-BEHAVIORAL MODEL, THE FAMILY MODEL AND FAMILY DISEASE, FAMILY SYSTEMS AND BEHAVIORAL COUPLES THERAPY AND SELF MEDICATION MODEL AND PSYCHODYNAMIC THERAPY. THE COURSE WILL ALSO COVER HARM REDUCTION, MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING AND THE STAGES OF CHANGE. WE WILL ALSO EXPLORE THE TREATMENT OF CO-OCCURING PSYCHIATRIC AND ADDICTIVE DISORDERS.

Sections Offered: Fall 2026

Sections Offered: Spring 2026