See module specification for other years:
2022-232023-24
Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching period
A
Semester 2 2024-25
Module aims
In this course we'll be getting to grips with the full force of drug addiction and so will be taking an in-depth look at the causes of addiction from both psychological and biological perspectives, including the emotional consequences as experienced by real people. Theories of drug addiction and related therapies will be assessed in light of earlier work carried out during the module.
Each session will consist of a lecture by Gavin Phillips followed by discussion groups, from small to the group as a whole..
Module learning outcomes
Describe the basic evidence which suggests that dopamine is a key neurotransmitter of the brain mediating the rewarding properties of drugs of abuse.
Outline the evidence indicating that the 'natural' function of the mesoaccumbens dopamine projection to mediate the behavioural control exerted by secondary reinforcers.
Provide a commentary on the neurological bases of drug craving.
Explain how stressful experiences appear to sensitise permanently the mesoaccumbens dopamine projection, and outline the potential significance of sensitisation for drug addiction.
Outline and evaluate current theories of drug addiction.
Module content
Introduction to Drug Addiction
Neural Bases of Reward
Dopamine & Conditioning
Drug Craving
Sensitisation
Drug ‘Wanting’ vs. Drug ‘Liking’
Addiction: From Actions to Habits
Treatment Options
Theories of Drug Addiction
Revision
Indicative assessment
Task
% of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled)
100
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task
% of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled)
100
Module feedback
The marks on all assessed work will be provided on e-vision.
Indicative reading
Although there is no textbook for the course, relevant sections of the following book on learning and memory, reward and addiction are superb, and would provide suitable background information:
Carlson, NR. (2016). Physiology of Behaviour. 12th Edition. Allyn & Bacon, MA, USA.