Course overview
This course aims to explore the effects of individual substances and learn how the body adapts to continued drug use. In this course, we will explore the biological basis of addictions, but also review environmental and psychological factors that are important contributors to the development of addiction. We will explore these links and look at other new developments in the research on the biological basis of addiction.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the effects of a range of drugs of abuse including the processes of adaptation in the body and brain that arise with continued drug use
- Explain the processes that drive behavioural addictions
- Analyse the factors that impact on the chance someone will develop an addiction
- Describe the psychological processes that affect continued drug use or problem gambling behaviour
- Describe recent developments in our understanding of the biological basis of addiction and comorbidities
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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.