PSYC 121 - Drugs and Behavior

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-B2
Overview of psychoactive drugs (prescription, illicit, over-the-counter) and dietary supplements, basic principles of psychopharmacology, and introduction to scientific theories and practices related to drug development. Emphasis on marketing strategies, historical influences on drug use, and government restrictions.

Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-B2 - Lower Division Life Sciences
Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Identify differences between types of psychoactive substances.
Describe the biological bases of drug action.
Discuss the relationship between scientific research, cultural values, and popular trends in regard to the prevalence of specific drug use and societal demands for restriction of use.

B2. Life Sciences Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the life sciences;
demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.