Diversity and Special Issues in Substance Abuse

(3 Credit Hours – Cost $1,350)

Click here to Register

 

Prerequisites: Minimum 12 credit hours of graduate level courses in addictions studies or psychology.

Course Description: This graduate-level course examines the issues of diversity in substance abuse population and prepares the students to work more effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds struggling with alcohol and drug dependence. The following topics will be addressed and analysed: theory and meaning of diversity in the context of addictions, race and ethnicity including African-Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders, Hispanics, and Native Americans. Sexual orientation and diversity in substance abuse population will also be examined. Finally, this course will provide a comprehensive overview of the theory and research regarding diversity issues in addiction treatment.

Course Outcomes: After completing this course, candidates will be able to:

  1. Describe, analyse, and assess theoretical concepts and fundamental research in diversity and special issues in substance abuse.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of the history of prominent ethnic groups in North America and the relationship of that history to substance use and abuse, access to care, and health issues related to substance use.
  3. Appraise and reflect on issues of integrating diversity into addiction treatment.
  4. Develop and apply culture-centric approaches to substance abuse treatment.

Required Text*:

Loue, S. (2003). Diversity Issues in Substance Abuse Treatment and Research. New York: Kluwer Academic Publisher. ISBN: 0-306-47775—0

*Candidates are responsible to buy the required textbook for this course. You can find this book in major online bookstores such as amazon.com, abebooks.com etc.

Supplementary Resources**:

Straussner, S. (2001). Ethnocultural Factors in Substance Abuse Treatment. New York: Guildford Press. ISBN: 978-1572308855

**These resources are not required, but may provide assistance in completing your assignments for this course.