Drugs, Society & Human Behavior, you will see a listing of drug categories along with examples of substances in each category. One category that is missing is steroids or performance enhancing drugs. You have also seen another example of the drug categories illustrated in this lesson titled, Periodic Table of the Intoxicants. This example came directly from the publisher of Pleasure of Unwoven. This listing is a more scientific approach to the drug categories. The goal of this lesson is to understand that drugs are placed into specific drug categories in order to understand their actions on the brain and human behavior. It is not possible to place all drugs into specific categories as new drugs are synthesized every day. In addition, some drugs produce effects that may fall into several drug categories, which make it difficult to categorize them. For example, cannabis is often used for its depressant effects, but in high doses, it can also produce hallucinogenic effects. Cannabis is not listed as a depressant or a hallucinogen because it is very unique in all its psychoactive properties. Therefore, cannabis is listed in its own drug category.
You will be provided the heading of each drug category along with questions to get you started in examining and researching different substances. This assignment will also help to illustrate the goals of the lesson as well as understand how drugs are categorized.
Terms to understand:
Psychological Dependence occurs when the drug hits the brain quickly (e.g., inhalation or intravenous use) and provides an instantaneous and pleasurable experience.
Physical Dependence occurs when the drug leaves the system more rapidly than the body can adapt.
Assignment Questions (answer all numbered questions (essay format) in a file upload assignment):
Depressants:
- What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Identify and list at least three examples of depressants.
- Identify at least three characteristics or behaviors of someone abusing depressants.
- What are the similarities and differences between barbiturates and benzodiazepines?
- What is an anxiolytic?
Stimulants: - What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Identify and list at least three examples of stimulants.
- Identify at least three characteristics or behaviors of someone abusing stimulants.
- Identify at least three specific populations and explain the reason these populations may be attracted to the use of stimulants.
Hallucinogens or Psychedelics: - What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Identify and list at least three examples of hallucinogens.
- Identify at least three characteristics or behaviors of someone abusing hallucinogens.
- What type of dependence (listed above) is only unique to hallucinogens?
Look up the following terms (14-18), provide the definition of each term, and two examples of each: - Auditory hallucinations
- Visual hallucinations
- Gustatory hallucinations
- Olfactory hallucinations
- Tactile hallucinations.
- What kind of context can you provide in illustrating the concepts of a “good trip,” versus a “bad trip,” when describing these terms?
- Could there be drastic consequences of using hallucinogens?
Cannabis: - What effect does marijuana have on the human body/mind?
- Define the differences between THC and CBD. How does knowing the differences of THC and CBD illustrate the lack of understanding in the public eye?
- Identify at least three medical benefits of cannabis.
- How can you tell the difference between someone using the substance medicinally, recreationally or chronically?
Steroids: - What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Define and describe the two types of steroids. Of the two types, which one is primarily abused?
- What populations are known for abusing them?
- What are some behavioral and physical characteristics of their abuse?
Narcotics/Opioids: - What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Give some examples of pain killers.
- Why are they so addictive?
- Discuss your thoughts/feelings/comments in regards to this category being an epidemic in our society.
Inhalants: - What effects do they have on the human body/mind?
- Give some examples of commonly used/abused inhalants.
- Identify the population that is most likely to abuse inhalants.
- Identify at least three characteristics or behaviors of someone abusing them.
- Due to the specific way these substances are administered, what are the drastic consequences?
Further Reflection: - Identify and describe the “do’s” and “don’ts” of working with individuals who may be using, abusing or are dependent on drugs.
Sample Solution
