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Disorders Due to Substance Use and Addictive Behaviors

Andrew T Stull

Many people around the world struggle with substance use disorders and addictive behaviors. You might know someone, possibly a family member or close friend, who is currently dealing with one of these problems. This course provides a review of common substance use disorders associated with the use of common depressants, opioids, stimulants, hallucinogens, dissociate drugs, and inhalants. Because they share many of the same characteristics, addictive behaviors, such as gambling and gaming disorders, are covered. In addition, the course discusses the diagnostic criteria, demographics, contributing factors, and treatments for each disorder.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Learn With PsycLearn Essentials
This module introduces you to your PsycLearn Essentials course. Find out what’s included in this course and how to navigate the modules and lessons. You’ll also learn valuable study tips for successful learning.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides foundational knowledge suitable for students who wish to further study substance use
Covers various substance use disorders, such as those related to depressants, opioids, stimulants, and hallucinogens
Examines the contributing factors to substance use disorders, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences
Explores the treatment options for substance use disorders, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural approaches
Provides resources from the American Psychological Association (APA) for further exploration of the topic
Taught by Andrew T Stull, who has extensive experience in the field of substance use disorders

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Reviews summary

Clinical foundations in addiction and behavioral disorders

According to students, this course provides a comprehensive and highly informative overview of substance use disorders and addictive behaviors. Learners particularly praise its academic rigor, noting it delivers evidence-based information aligned with American Psychological Association (APA) standards. The course is considered well-structured, detailing diagnostic criteria, neurochemical effects, and various contributing factors. Many find the treatment module practical and the inclusion of gambling and gaming disorders relevant. While largely positive, some suggest a greater inclusion of case studies for real-world application, or a more engaging presentation style to offset its dense nature. Overall, it's highly recommended for those seeking a solid clinical foundation.
Excellent for beginners, may be basic for advanced practitioners.
"Good foundational info, but for advanced practitioners, it might feel a bit basic. A good starting point, though."
"This course is perfect for students new to the field, but experienced clinicians might seek more advanced topics."
"As someone with prior knowledge, I found it a good refresher, though not deeply challenging on certain topics."
Effectively covers both substance use and addictive behaviors.
"The inclusion of gambling and gaming disorders alongside substance use was very insightful and relevant for my studies."
"It was helpful to see the parallels drawn between substance use disorders and behavioral addictions, which broadens my perspective."
"I appreciated the course's comprehensive approach to addiction, extending beyond just substances."
Offers valuable insights for practitioners and students.
"As a therapist, I found the treatment module very practical, providing a solid foundation for understanding current approaches."
"This is great for professionals needing a refresher or students entering the field."
"I found the course useful for enhancing my understanding of key diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities."
A thorough, evidence-based understanding of disorders.
"This course offers an excellent overview, very comprehensive, covering various substances and behaviors."
"I found it highly informative and well-structured, integrating biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors seamlessly."
"The course material is up-to-date and evidence-based, exactly what I expected from the APA."
Content is thorough but could benefit from more dynamic presentation.
"While comprehensive, I found the presentation a bit dry. More engaging visuals or direct interviews with experts would enhance it."
"The content is solid, but sometimes felt a bit dense. It could use more case studies or real-world examples to break it up."
"I was hoping for a more interactive learning experience to complement the detailed information provided."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Disorders Due to Substance Use and Addictive Behaviors with these activities:
Review DSM-5
Refresh your knowledge of DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders to master diagnostic criteria.
Show steps
  • Read the DSM-5 criteria for each substance use disorder.
  • Take practice quizzes on DSM-5 criteria.
Practice identifying signs and symptoms of substance use disorders
Practice identifying signs and symptoms of substance use disorders to refine your diagnostic skills.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Review the signs and symptoms of substance use disorders.
  • Complete practice exercises on identifying signs and symptoms.
Join a study group to discuss course material and case studies
Join a study group to discuss course material and case studies to enhance understanding through collaboration.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Find a study group to join.
  • Attend study group meetings regularly.
  • Participate in discussions and share your insights.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a presentation on a specific substance use disorder
Create a presentation on a specific substance use disorder to consolidate your knowledge and solidify understanding.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Choose a specific substance use disorder to focus on.
  • Research the disorder, including its symptoms, causes, and treatments.
  • Create a presentation that outlines your research findings.
  • Present your findings to a group of peers or professionals.
Compile a list of resources for individuals struggling with substance use disorders
Compile a list of resources to assist individuals with substance use disorders and increase accessibility to support.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Research and gather information on resources available for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
  • Categorize the resources into different types (e.g., treatment centers, support groups, online resources).
  • Create a document or website that lists the resources and provides contact information.
  • Share the resource list with individuals who may benefit from it.
Volunteer at a substance abuse treatment center
Volunteer at a substance abuse treatment center to observe and apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
Show steps
  • Find a substance abuse treatment center that accepts volunteers.
  • Apply to volunteer and complete any necessary training.
  • Attend volunteer shifts and assist staff with various tasks.
Develop a treatment plan for a client with a substance use disorder
Develop a treatment plan for a client with a substance use disorder to apply your knowledge to a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Substance Use Disorders
Show steps
  • Choose a case study of a client with a substance use disorder.
  • Assess the client's needs and develop a treatment plan.
  • Implement the treatment plan and monitor the client's progress.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Disorders Due to Substance Use and Addictive Behaviors will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Course image
Effort
12 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
American Psychological Association
Instructor
Andrew T Stull
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides foundational knowledge suitable for students who wish to further study substance use
Covers various substance use disorders, such as those related to depressants, opioids, stimulants, and hallucinogens
Examines the contributing factors to substance use disorders, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences
Explores the treatment options for substance use disorders, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural approaches
Provides resources from the American Psychological Association (APA) for further exploration of the topic
Taught by Andrew T Stull, who has extensive experience in the field of substance use disorders
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