Chapter 5: Drugs (4)

Classification

Psychoactive Substances

Modify mental, emotional, or behavioural functioning

a) Alcohol

● Effects: slows down brain activity
● Binge drinking & university students
● BAC & driving

a) Alcohol (2)

● Violent crime:
● rape & domestic violence
● Complications with chronic use:
● emotional, social, physical

BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT (BAC)

Symptoms of drug dependence

●Take more than intended
●Unsuccessful at cutting back
●Too much time spent obtaining the substance
●Fail to to meet role obligations
●Marked tolerance
●Withdrawal symptoms

THC effects

• Effects: mild hallucinogen; amplifies senses
• Mild euphoria and relaxation

THC Problems

• Effects on memory & attention
• Automobile accidents: Issues with assessment
• Early onset psychosis in those vulnerable

Crack/Cocaine Effects

powerful stimulant, activates reward centers

Crack/Cocaine Problems

addiction, mix with other drugs.

Hallucinogens

• Psilocybin (magic mushrooms), LSD
• Effects: hallucinations, perceptual distortions, mystical experiences/ psychotherapeutic use

MDMA (ecstasy) Effects

euphoria, energy, emotional bonding and empathy

MDMA (ecstasy) Problems

• Damage to serotonin pathways
• Long term impairments in memory, mood and personality

Narcotics or opiates

• Derived from opium and capable of relieving pain
• Heroin, morphine, codeine, oxycontin, fentanyl*
• Opioid crisis

Factors in Drug Abuse a)

a) How rewarding the drug is

Factors in Drug Abuse b)

b) Biological predisposition
• Genetic factors
• Translates into fewer dopamine receptors
• Predict who will be more likely to be addicted to alcohol, cocaine and heroin

Factors in Drug Abuse c)

c) Psychological factors:
• Depression/anxiety
• Escape from painful self-awareness

Factors in Drug Abuse d)

d) Social factors:
• Peers
• Family background