Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHA) is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders for children and adolescents. The Instructor discusses the impact of ADHA in combination with substance abuse. He also addresses medication issues and related complications and points to successful intervention strategies. The study of ADHD is essential for those concerned with adolescent substance abuse as it can lead to substance use, abuse and possibly addiction.
Grade levels: Adult
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Introduction: Adolescent Development Period
This class provides an over view and introduction to the course overall. Class rules are discussed and the foundation is laid with an introductory review of the adolescent development period using a model developed by the instructor
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Adoescent Development Period, continued
This class continues to present an overview of the adolescent development period from the instructor’s perspective. In addition, Eric Erickson’s development stages are reviews as it relates to the course content.
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Risk Factors, Part 1
Provides information specific to the “generation gap” that exists between “baby boomers” and adolescents of today. Risk factors such as those connected with community, school, and family, as well as those associated with the individual are discussed. General categories or risk confronting adolescents and young adults are also reviewed.
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Risk Factors, Part 2
Concludes the discussion of risk factors. It provides a look at the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. There is also list of “What Adolescents Need” which I have developed. This serves as a foundation for effective early intervention, prevention, and treatment programming.
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Pharmacology and Epidemiology of Drugs, Part 1
These classes focus on the pharmacology and epidemiology of adolescent substance abuse. The “Monitoring the Future Survey” by the University of Michigan, performed in 1999, is primary source of information for these classes. An overview is provided for the drugs that adolescents are most likely to use and abuse, giving the possible benefits and adverse reactions associated with these drugs. Guest Expert: Dr. Greg Blevins, University Professor of Alcoholism Sciences
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Hallucinogens 1
Introduces the pharmacology and uses of hallucinogens. The lesson discusses the use of hallucinogens in traditional tribal rituals and modern recreational practices. Students learn about hallucinogens found in nature and how they differ from developed synthetic versions. Discussion reveals the wide array of pharmacological effects generated by these drugs and examines how this complicates their drug classification in the United States. Discussion of the drug LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) exemplifies aspects of hallucinogen use and abuse, highlighting the medical and public issues raised by this class of drugs in society.
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Hallucinogens 2
Expands on the discussion of hallucinogens introduced in Class 16. This lesson reviews the origins and effects of several drugs, including plant-based hallucinogens (such as “magic mushrooms” and peyote), Indole hallucinogens, Catechol hallucinogens, amphetamines, designer drugs, and Anticholinergic hallucinogens. Students get an in-depth look at the differing pharmacology and effects associated with these drugs.