This course will focus on several major types of addictive behaviour, including substance abuse, gambling addiction, Internet addiction, and video addiction. In each of these domains, we will discuss (1) the nature and distribution of the addictive behaviours; (2) the causes of the behaviours; (3) the psychological and social consequences of the behaviours; (4) the prevention and treatment of the addictive behaviours. Special focuses will be given to drug abuse and treatment in the greater China region, especially Macao and mainland China.

CILO-1: Describe the major types of addictive behaviour and their distributions. CILO-2: Summarize the various classifications of legal and illegal drugs, including but not limited to stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens. CILO-3: Assess the impact of addictive behaviours on the individual, family, and society. CILO-4: Summarize the biological, psychological, sociological causes of addictive behaviours. CILO-5: Identify the trends of addictive behaviours. CILO-6: Discuss and evaluate programs and policies for the prevention and treatment of addictive behaviours.