Module $$8$$: Substance Abuse Unit $$3$$ Practice

Vocabulary flashcards covering the individual, interpersonal, and community factors that contribute to substance abuse as outlined in Term $$3$$, Week $$3$$ lecture notes.

Experimentation

The starting point for most substance abuse cases, often driven by curiosity or observing friends using drugs.

Emotional problems

Issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, loneliness, or an unhappy family life that individuals may try to escape through drug use.

Alcohol

A substance that people may start drinking to numb feelings of depression.

Dagga

A substance used by some individuals to deal with stress at home or school.

Cocaine

A substance used by some to boost their levels of energy and confidence.

Sleeping pills

A type of medication used by some to cope with panic attacks.

Pain tablets

Medication used to treat severe pain or headaches, which can lead to substance reliance.

Hiding the problem

The effect drugs have by masking an issue rather than treating its cause; when the drug is removed, the problem remains.

Three main contributing factors

The individual themselves, the relationships they have, and the community in which they live.

Intrapersonal (individual) influences

Factors related to the self, including personality traits, attitudes, beliefs, and genetics.

Interpersonal influences

Social factors including family, friends, peers, and the personal or home situation.

Community and social influences

Societal factors including purchase age laws, media portrayal, advertising, drug costs, national laws, law enforcement, and school rules.

Minimum purchase age

A specific community and social influence involving national laws for alcohol and cigarettes.