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The Addicted Brain

Michael Kuhar, Ph.D.

This is a course about addiction to drugs and other behaviors. It will describe what happens in the brain and how this information helps us deal with and overcome addiction. It will also discuss other topics, such as government policy and our vulnerability to take drugs.

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What's inside

Syllabus

The Background & Overview of Drug Use
In this first week, we'll explore drug abuse, types of addictions, and the behaviors associated with them.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Takes a scientific approach to a field that is typically understood by personal anecdotes and social critiques
Provides a blend of theory and practice, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced learners
Covers a wide range of topics related to addiction, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject
Taught by an experienced instructor who is a recognized expert in the field of addiction
Explores the latest research on addiction, providing learners with up-to-date information
Requires learners to have a basic understanding of biology and neuroscience

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Reviews summary

Addiction science: brain to policy

According to learners, 'The Addicted Brain' provides a largely positive introduction to the science and societal aspects of addiction. Students praise the clarity of explanations for complex neurological concepts and appreciate the broad overview covering brain function, different drugs, treatment, and policy. While many find the lectures engaging and the course content highly relevant, some reviewers noted that the level of detail may be too basic for those with prior scientific backgrounds or felt certain sections, like animal models, were less valuable or more challenging than others. Overall, it's seen as a strong foundation for understanding addiction.
Some sections highly relevant, others less.
"Found the sections on the opioid epidemic and marijuana particularly relevant..."
"The animal models section felt irrelevant and dated."
"Liked the policy week though."
"The animal models week was tough."
Instructor explains well, lectures are good.
"The instructor is clear and engaging."
"Lecturer makes complex topics accessible."
"I enjoyed the lecture style."
Covers many facets of addiction.
"Covered a wide range of topics from brain chemistry to policy."
"I appreciated the overview of different drug classes and societal issues."
"Gives a solid foundation on the science, treatment, and policy aspects."
Complex topics explained simply.
"The lecturer explained complex brain science in a way that was easy to understand."
"I found the explanations of neurotransmission surprisingly clear."
"The science behind addiction was presented very clearly, which helped me grasp difficult concepts."
Some parts basic, others challenging.
"Very basic information. If you have any background... this course will feel like a review."
"Didn't go into as much depth as I hoped..."
"The explanations of synaptic transmission were hard to follow without a strong science background."
"Some parts felt a bit rushed, but overall a valuable learning experience."

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 The Addicted Brain with these activities:
Follow a tutorial on using a statistical software package for data analysis
Following a tutorial on using a statistical software package for data analysis will help you develop the skills necessary to analyze data and draw conclusions from your research.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Identify a statistical software package that you would like to learn.
  • Find a tutorial for that software package.
  • Follow the tutorial.
Course Materials Compilation
Compiling and organizing course materials helps students stay organized and access information efficiently.
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials (e.g., lecture notes, slides, assignments, quizzes).
  • Create a system for organizing the materials (e.g., folders, notebooks).
  • Review the materials periodically to reinforce learning.
Online Discussion Forum Participation
Engaging in discussions with peers allows students to share their perspectives, clarify concepts, and gain diverse insights.
Show steps
  • Join the online discussion forum.
  • Read through existing discussions and posts.
  • Participate in discussions by posting thoughtful comments and questions.
  • Respond to other students' posts and engage in meaningful exchanges.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Guest Lecture on Addiction Recovery
Attending a workshop with an expert in addiction recovery can provide students with valuable insights and practical strategies for supporting individuals struggling with addiction.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.
  • Take notes and ask questions to enhance your understanding.
  • Reflect on the workshop content and apply it to your learning.

Career center

Learners who complete The Addicted Brain will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Addiction Counselor
Addiction Counselors work with people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. The course "The Addicted Brain" could help an Addiction Counselor by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could assist counselors in developing more effective treatment plans for their clients. The course could also help counselors understand the challenges that people with addiction face and develop more empathy for their clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Addiction Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselors work with people who are struggling with addiction. They provide support and counseling to help people overcome their addiction. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Substance Abuse Counselors by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective treatment plans.
See salaries and explore the career path for Substance Abuse Counselor
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Psychiatrists by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them develop more effective treatment plans for their patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Psychiatrist
Neurologist
Neurologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system. This includes disorders that affect the brain, such as addiction. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Neurologists by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them develop more effective treatment plans for their patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Neurologist
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information about their use. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Pharmacists by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the effects of different drugs on the brain, and it could help them counsel patients about the risks of addiction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist
Toxicologist
Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on the body. They work in a variety of settings, such as research laboratories, government agencies, and private industry. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Toxicologists by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the effects of different drugs on the brain, and it could help them develop more effective strategies for preventing and treating addiction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist
Behavioral Health Technician
Behavioral Health Technicians assist people struggling with mental health issues and addiction. They provide support to individuals in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and group homes. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Behavioral Health Technicians by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them provide more effective support.
See salaries and explore the career path for Behavioral Health Technician
Mental Health Counselor
Mental Health Counselors provide therapy and support to people struggling with mental health issues. They work with people in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Mental Health Counselors by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective treatment plans.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mental Health Counselor
Social Worker
Social Workers provide support and counseling to people in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community centers. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Social Workers by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective strategies for supporting them.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Case Manager
Case Managers help people access social services and healthcare. They work with people who have a variety of needs, including those struggling with addiction. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Case Managers by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective strategies for supporting them.
See salaries and explore the career path for Case Manager
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants provide healthcare services under the supervision of a physician. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Physician Assistants by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective treatment plans.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant
Public Health Official
Public Health Officials work to protect and improve the health of the public. They work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community health centers. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Public Health Officials by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective strategies for preventing and treating addiction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Official
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies. They work under the supervision of a physician or other healthcare professional. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Registered Nurses by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that people with addiction face, and it could help them provide more effective care.
See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse
Drug Policy Analyst
Drug Policy Analysts study the effects of drug policies on society. They work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy groups. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for Drug Policy Analysts by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the complex issues surrounding drug use and addiction, and it could help them develop more effective policies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Drug Policy Analyst
School Counselor
School Counselors provide support and counseling to students in a variety of settings, such as elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. The course "The Addicted Brain" could be useful for School Counselors by teaching them about the neurobiology of addiction. This knowledge could help them understand the challenges that students with addiction face, and it could help them develop more effective strategies for supporting them.
See salaries and explore the career path for School Counselor

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Addicted Brain.
Nicotine and Marijuana
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the neurobiology of addiction, covering topics such as the role of neurotransmitters, brain regions, and genetic factors in the development and maintenance of addiction.
Nicotine and Marijuana (Volume 5) (Neurobiology of...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
The Biology of Desire
Save
Explores the complex relationship between choice and biology in addiction, arguing that addiction disease that is influenced by both factors.
The Biology of Desire
Paperback
Check
The Biology of Desire
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Craving Mind
Save
Provides practical strategies for overcoming addiction, based on the latest research on the neurobiology of addiction.
The Craving Mind: From Cigarettes to Smartphones to...
Paperback
$$
(Deutsch) Das gierige Gehirn: Der achtsame Weg, Alltagssüchte...
Kindle Edition
$$
(中文) The Craving Mind (Chinese Edition)
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Building a Non-Anxious Life
Save
Provides a compassionate and personal account of addiction, based on the author's own experiences as a doctor and addiction specialist.
Building a Non-Anxious Life
Hardcover
$$
Color Your Way to Calm: Coloring Book for Building...
Paperback
$
Building a Non-Anxious Life
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Official Dopamine Nation Workbook
Save
Explores the role of dopamine in addiction and offers strategies for reducing dopamine-driven behaviors.
The Official Dopamine Nation Workbook
Paperback
Check
The Official Dopamine Nation Workbook
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Ethical Brain
Save
Provides a neuroscientific perspective on moral decision-making, which is relevant to understanding the ethical implications of addiction.
The Ethical Brain
Paperback
Check
The Ethical Brain
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Supercommunicators
Save
Provides insights into the formation and breaking of habits, which is relevant to understanding the development and maintenance of addiction.
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret...
Hardcover
$$
Charles Duhigg 3 Books Collection Set...
Paperback
$$$
(Español) Supercomunicadores [Supercommunicators]: Cómo...
Audible Audiobook
$$
(Português) Supercomunicadores [Supercommunicators]: Como...
Audible Audiobook
$
(Deutsch) Supercommunicators: Wie man die geheime Sprache...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Noise
Save
Provides insights into the two systems of thinking, which is relevant to understanding the cognitive processes involved in addiction.
Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment
Paperback
$$
(Español) Ruido: Un fallo en el juicio humano / Noise: A Flaw...
Hardcover
$$
(Français) Noise: Pourquoi nous faisons des erreurs de...
Kindle Edition
$$
By Daniel Kahneman Best Seller 2 Boks collection...
Paperback
$$
(Deutsch) Noise (German edition): Was unsere Entscheidungen...
Audible Audiobook
$$
Cover image
The Willpower Instinct
Save
Provides practical strategies for developing self-control, which is relevant to understanding the challenges of overcoming addiction.
The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why...
Paperback
$$
The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why...
Kindle Edition
$

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Effort
3-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Emory University
Instructor
Michael Kuhar, Ph.D.
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Takes a scientific approach to a field that is typically understood by personal anecdotes and social critiques
Provides a blend of theory and practice, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced learners
Covers a wide range of topics related to addiction, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject
Taught by an experienced instructor who is a recognized expert in the field of addiction
Explores the latest research on addiction, providing learners with up-to-date information
Requires learners to have a basic understanding of biology and neuroscience
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