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Welcome to PRPS 463: Drugs, Behavior & Society!

This course is about understanding substance use within contemporary society. The readings and lecture modules cover critical aspects related to substance use at the individual (neuro-biological), social (family), community (treatment systems), and environmental (media) levels. The material in this course provides a comprehensive understanding of substance use in general with a focus on epidemiology, theories, and prevention (risk and protective factors). The course also provides a depth of information with respect to substance use disorders (SUDs) with a focus on the clinical practice elements associated with addressing SUDs, including screening and assessment, early intervention (SBIRT), with an emphasis on stages of change, with treatment best practices including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral practice including relapse prevention and recovery principles. Case studies are provided with the modules to help you apply the reading material and complement the information given in the modules. In addition, there are course discussions throughout the term to get you to think about the material presented in the reading and lecture modules in a more meaningful way. There will be 2 exams that cover material presented in lecture modules and readings. Lastly, there will be several core assignments that are described on the Overview of Assignments page.

In order to be successful in this course, we suggest the following:

Read the syllabus thoroughly.
Be very proactive with the lessons each week. You should complete the readings and videos by Wednesday of each week at the latest so that you can fully engage in each discussion forum.
Remember that your original posts for each week’s discussion are due Wednesday at 11:59 pm. You will only get partial credit if you post after that point.
If you have questions or struggle with anything for any reason please be proactive in alerting your instructor early, so that if accommodations are needed, they can be implemented in time.
Have fun getting to know one another and interacting with the curriculum!

We look forward to seeing you online this semester and getting to know you well!