PSYC 105-01, Drugs, Brain and Behavior, Fall 1998

Abstract

The goal of this course is to help the student acquire the knowledge and reasoning skills that will enable him or her to think critically about the effects of drugs on the brain and behavior. To do this we must first understand the basic structure and function of the nervous system as well as the principles of drug action within the body. Thus, the first four weeks of this course will provide a tutorial on basic neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuropharmacology. No background in biology is necessary beyond what is covered in a high school biology course. Following this we will examine five broad categories of psychoactive drugs: (1) sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs, (2) narcotics, (3) hallucinogens and marijuana, (4) stimulants and (5) psychiatric medications attempting to identify basic mechanisms of action. A central concern in this course is the question of what factors contribute to drug abuse. If time permits we will also examine a variety of drugs such as inhalants and steroids which do not fit into these categories but which none-the-less have an impact on the brain and behavior.