Monday, March 17, 2014

Substance Abuse and Social Services - Social Work Elective fall '14

SWK S300 Topics in Social Work: 
Substance Abuse and Social Services
Section: 10976 


The purpose of this course is to give students an overview of the field of addiction (alcohol & drugs) including discussion of several conceptual models and theories. The course focuses on self-help groups, assessment procedures, and current intervention strategies. Students are given an opportunity to explore special issues in the field among oppressed minorities and to share their findings with other students. Emphasis will also be placed on introducing students to the particular culture and ideologies that contribute to the provision of services in the field of addictions.  A brief overview on other addictions (gambling, sex, food) will be presented.

The emphasis of this class will be short lecture, group discussions, in-class activities, open-book/note exams, as well as attendance at two open A.A. meetings. This course is appropriate for sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in social work or other helping professions such as nursing, education, psychology, and criminal justice. There is no prerequisite for this class.