Apr 16, 2026  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Academic Catalog-June 
    
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2024-2025 Undergraduate Academic Catalog-June [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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PSY 2007 - Addictive and Compulsive Behavior

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits
Course Description
This course introduces the student to the various causes, consequences and treatments of addictive and compulsive behaviors.  The course examines the history of illicit and addictive drugs of all kinds and provides a comprehensive understanding of how they affect the brains, behavior and lives of those who habitually consume them. The student will learn about the history and sources of drugs, drug laws, basic psychopharmacology, stimulants (including caffeine and nicotine), depressants (such as heroin and fentanyl), psychedelic drugs (including LSD and ecstasy), and some more commonly used prescription substances such as anabolic steroids and benzodiazepine drugs (Valium, Xanax). The course also addresses behavioral or process addictions that include compulsive gambling, eating disorders, sex addiction, compulsive hoarding, and related issues.
Prereq: None
Note: Students choose between Think Critically or Exhibit Curiosity.
This course meets the following Raider Core CLO Requirement: Think Critically, Exhibit Curiosity
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Objectively define and evaluate behavior related to chemical and behavioral addictions
  • Exhibit basic knowledge of the major theories and principles of addiction and compulsive behavior
  • Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the consequences of chemical dependency, alcoholism and compulsive behaviors
  • Express familiarity with treatment procedures for drug- and non-drug addictive and compulsive behaviors
  • Critically evaluate current issues in the study of addiction
Prerequisites by Topic
  • None
Course Topics
  • Introduction and history of drug use
  • Neurochemistry and physiology of addiction
  • Stimulants: cocaine, amphetamine, caffeine, nicotine
  • Alcohol
  • Depressant drugs: opioids and related drugs
  • Psychedelic drugs
  • Marijuana and other psychoactive drugs
  • Theories of addiction and compulsivity
  • The foundations of compulsive behavior
  • Gambling addiction, hoarding disorder, compulsive buying
  • Eating disorder, sex addiction, other behavioral addictions
  • The global drug trade, drug enforcement, drug testing
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
Coordinator
Dr. Jan Fertig


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