Psychology Chapter 4 States of Consciousness Drug-altered Consciousness Pg

Drug-altered consciousness is not new. In nearly every known culture throughout history, people have sought ways to alter waking consciousness. Psychoactive drugs- Def.: Chemical substances that change moods and perceptions.

Many of the drugs available today, legally or illegally, have been used for thousands of years. Consider the history and motivation of where many substances originated. Is today’s “drug problem” different from the drug use in other societies and times?

From the text: 1. Motives for using psychoactive drugs have changed. - Traditionally psychoactive substances have been used for religious rituals, medicines, nutrients or stimulants. - Today’s society uses alcohol and drugs in recreation.

2. The drugs themselves have changed. -Today’s drugs are stronger -Drugs are big business - New synthetic drugs “Club Drugs”

3. Scientists and the public know more about the effects of psychoactive drugs than in the past.

Knowledge is power?

Physical Dependence- Def.:An addiction in which a drug is needed to prevent withdrawal. Psychological Dependence- Def.:An addiction in which a drug is needed to maintain a sense of well-being.

The reasons for this self-destructive behavior is not entirely clear, but some encouraging leads are beginning to emerge: 1. “Addicted Brain”- different from a non-addicted brain. -The addict brain is typified by depression at a normal state and is only happy with ecstatic "highs". -changes in metabolism and responsiveness

2. Neurotransmitters- Drugs increase dopamine levels in the brain Mouse Party

3. Studies- Studies show a relationship between dependence/ addiction and mental illness. Individuals suffering from psychological problems are more likely to abuse alcohol and other substances.

Disorders With Increased Risk of Drug Abuse Antisocial personality disorder15.5% Manic episode14.5% Schizophrenia10.1% Panic disorder04. 3% Major depressiveepisode04.1% Obsessive-compulsive disorder03.4% Phobias02.1%

Types of Drugs: Sedatives- Def.: Depressants; slow down central nervous system activity

Types of Drugs: Stimulants- Def.: Excite the central nervous system; energize behavior

Types of Drugs: Hallucinogens- Def.: Psychedelic drugs that distort perception and cause hallucinations

Types of Drugs: Opiates- Def.: Highly addictive drugs that depress neural activity and provide temporary relief from pain and anxiety

Substance Use, Abuse and Dependence Substance Abuse- Def.: A pattern of drug use that diminishes the ability to fulfill responsibilities at home or at work or school, that results in repeated use of a drug in dangerous situations, or that leads to difficuluties related to drug use.

Substance Use, Abuse and Dependence Substance Dependence- Def.: A pattern of compulsive drug taking that results in tolerance, withdrawal symptoms or other specific symptoms for at least a year.

Substance Use, Abuse and Dependence Tolerance- Def.: Phenomenon whereby higher doses of a drug are required to produce it’s original effects or to prevent withdrawal symptoms. -Progressive decrease in responsiveness

Substance Use, Abuse and Dependence Withdrawal Symptoms- Def.: Unpleasant physical or psychological effects that follow the discontinuance of a dependence-producing substance. Symptoms of dependence- pg. 167

Explaining Abuse & Addiction Pg Introduction: -Causes are complex and vary person to person. -Psychologists have identified a number of factors, especially in combination- that make a person more likely to abuse drugs.

Explaining Abuse & Addiction Biological Factors: - Evidence of a genetic basis for alcoholism (studies on biological & adopted children). - People appear to differ genetically in their tolerance of alcohol and it’s effects.

Explaining Abuse & Addiction Is addiction a physical disease? Alcoholics Anonymous – “The Disease Model” -alcoholism is not a moral issue, but a medical one. - Symptoms of a physiological condition - Doctors or counselors can refer someone to treatment (short term, long term or Out-patient care). 12 Step Programs- Recovery is not a cure Narcotics Anonymous & Al-Anon -Attached 12 Steps - Sponsors & Meetings

Psychological, Social & Cultural Factors: 1. Expectations: - The effects of the alcohol or drugs can reduce negative feelings or help someone escape their reality. - Expectation may be enough to cause a desired effect – placebo studies

Psychological, Social & Cultural Factors: 2. Setting: - Hospital gives Opiate based pain killers- but the patient does not get addicted (feeling of withdrawal symptoms). - Drinking to get drunk- using to get high- not social use (does not know when to stop). -Families can shape attitudes and beliefs.

Psychological, Social & Cultural Factors: 3. Culture- Europe vs. United States Muslim Societies

AlcoholAmphetamines BarbituratesCaffeineCocaine CodeineCrystal MethGHB HeroinInhalantsKetamine LSDMarijuana (THC) MDMA (Ecstasy) Methadone MethamphetamineMorphine NicotineOpium OxyContin Phencuclidine(PCP) Psilocybin/hallucinogenic mushrooms Rohypnol Steroids

Do not try this at home Made from Lye Ether Iodine Draino Ephedrine Brake Fluid Lighter Fluid Cold remedies Lithium Metals Hydrachloride Hydriotic Acid Red Phosphorus Anyhdrous Ammonia