3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

The goal of this course is to explore the psychobiological bases of drug addiction. The course will begin with a discussion of the evolving concepts and theories of addiction, as well as a review of the methods and animal models relevant for the study of drug addiction. Following this primary introduction, students will learn 1) how drugs of abuse affect neural function and how this relates to their addictive potential, 2) how biological and behavioral phenotypes predispose certain individuals to addiction, and 3) how environmental factors (stress, social context, learning history, drug contingencies, etc.) contribute to the development of addiction. Special focus will be given on the complex interactions between these different factors and levels of analysis. The course will integrate a variety of approaches (molecular biology, system neuroscience, and psychology). Based on this understanding of the psychobiological mechanisms of drug addiction, we will reflect and refine our views of addiction and examine potential ways to prevent and treat the disease.