vcc.ca
CNSK 2506: Addiction and Human Behaviour Across the Lifespan
Effective date
January 2021
Department
Counselling Skills
School
Continuing Studies
Description
This course provides students with an overview of addictive substances and behaviours and the physiological and psychological effects on the body and the mind across the lifespan. The course will examine unique considerations of addictive problems among adolescents, young adults, those in mid-life, and the elderly.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to the occurrence of substance misuse and other addictive behaviours
- Use a classification system for grouping psychoactive drugs according to their effects
- Define key concepts used in pharmacology to explain the action of psychoactive drugs
- Explain the psychological and physiological effects of substance use at specific developmental points across the lifespan
- Describe the structure and function of the brain as it relates to substance mis-use and other addictive behaviours
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
PLAR will be assessed by the Department according to standardized practice and using one or more of the following components: Challenge Exam, Demonstration, Interview, or External Evaluation.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 45
Total Hours: 45
Total Hours: 45
Instructional Strategies
Lecture, videos, small/large group discussion/work, reflective exercises, reflective writing, case studies, readings, guest speakers
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C (60%)
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Research paper |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Resource review |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
25 |
|
|
Final Exam |
25 |
|
|
Participation |
10 |
Participation and professionalism |
Course topics
- • Overview and historical context of substance use • Overview of lifespan development • Heredity and biology • Stimulants • Sedatives • Alcohol • Psychedelics • Anabolic steroids and Nicotine • Process addictions • Eating disorders • Pre-natal development and infancy and substance use • Adolescence and substance use • Middle adulthood and Elder substance use • Mental health and addictions
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.