Grade levels: Senior High (10-12)

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

A continuation of the discussion on the previous lecture by Dr. Blevins on the adverse effects and benefits of various drugs. After this discussion, there follows a presentation on prevention strategies. Guest Expert: Angela Bowman, Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association (IADDA). Video Visit: The Illinois Teen Institute

A continuation of the discussion on the previous lecture by Dr. Blevins on the adverse effects and benefits of various drugs. After this discussion, there follows a presentation on prevention strategies. Guest Expert: Angela Bowman, Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association (IADDA).

Focuses on assessing the adolescent substance abuser to determine the degree of impairment and potential level of care for treatment placement. A review of the assessment process with related documentation is provided. Guest Expert: Rhoda Sykes, Associate Clinical Director, Hazelden, Chicago

This class continues the discussion on assessment from the previous class. It begins with a video insert which provides an overview of a youth treatment program. Guest Expert: Rhoda Sykes, Associate Clinical Director, Hazelden, Chicago. Video Visit: Gateway Youth care, Lake villa, Illinois.

These classes focus on the extent to which young people can turn to various religious cults which may have negative consequences for them and their families. The presentation focuses on the impulses that cause young people to be attracted to religion in general and to more alternative religions or cults such as Satanism and the worship of the occult. Guest Expert: Professor John Simmons, Western Illinois University

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.

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

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.

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.