I. Course Prefix/Number: PSY 238
Course Name: Substance Abuse
Credits: 3 (3 lecture; 0 lab)
III. Course (Catalog) Description
IV. Learning Objectives
A. identify and explain the various theories or models of addiction.
B. list the stigmas and misconceptions associated with addiction.
C. list the various types of psychoactive substances currently associated with addiction.
D. identify the stages of alcoholism/addiction.
E. demonstrate knowledge of the assessment process and guides for diagnosis.
F. identify behavior associated with chemical addiction.
G. explain the psycho-social impact of addictive behavior on the individual, family and society.
H. differentiate between use, abuse and addiction.
I. identify and describe different treatment models.
J. identify factors in successful treatment.
K. demonstrate a working knowledge of techniques involved in treatment to include: observation, confrontations, feedback, education, self-disclosure, motivation, therapeutic relationships, group, individual and family functions, intervention techniques.
L. identify basic concepts of the self-help programs.
M. be familiar with differences in attitude and behavior patterns of special populations in order to provide meaningful quality care.
N. evaluate for suicidal behavior and develop tools for prevention/intervention.
O. explain the inter-relationship of alcohol and drug abuse and psychiatric illnesses.
P. describe the process of relapse.
Q. describe the process of recovery.
R. gain a practical knowledge of applicable state and federal laws and state code department rules and regulations.
S. know and understand the requirements of certification board code of ethics and be able to apply this code to the core functions.
V. Academic Integrity
• plagiarism (turning in work not written by you, or lacking proper citation),
• falsification and fabrication (lying or distorting the truth),
• helping others to cheat,
• unauthorized changes on official documents,
• pretending to be someone else or having someone else pretend to be you,
• making or accepting bribes, special favors, or threats, and
• any other behavior that violates academic integrity.
There are serious consequences to violations of the academic integrity policy. Oakton's policies and procedures provide students a fair hearing if a complaint is made against you. If you are found to have violated the policy, the minimum penalty is failure on the assignment and, a disciplinary record will be established and kept on file in the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for a period of 3 years.
Details of the Code of Academic Conduct can be found in the Student Handbook.
VI. Sequence of Topics
1. Alcohol/drug use in an historical perspective
2. Current problem - endemic
3. Models of addiction
B. Poly-Substance and Alcohol Abuse
1. Drugs of abuse - classifications/actions
2. Societal attitude/legalities
3. Definitions of addictions
C. Etiology of Addiction
1. Genetic pre-disposition
2. Psychological factors
3. Environmental/societal factors
4. Poly-substance abuse; cross addiction
D. Behavioral Consequences - Family
2. Family response
3. The family system
5. Children of chemically addicted individuals
E. Evaluation and Treatment
1. Assessment and evaluation tools and techniques
2. Treatment models
3. Obstacles in treatment and recovery
F. Treatment Approaches
1. Individual counseling
4. Self-help programs
5. Spiritual element
G. Special Populations In Treatment and Society
3. Ethnic populations
4. Homosexuality - MV considerations
H. The Recovery Process
VII. Methods of Instruction
Course may be taught as face-to-face, media-based, hybrid or online course.
VIII. Course Practices Required
IX. Instructional Materials
X. Methods of Evaluating Student Progress
XI. Other Course Information
If you have a documented learning, psychological, or physical disability you may be entitled to reasonable academic accommodations or services. To request accommodations or services, contact the Access and Disability Resource Center at the Des Plaines or Skokie campus. All students are expected to fulfill essential course requirements. The College will not waive any essential skill or requirement of a course or degree program.