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Culturally-Centered Addictions Research
Term : Summer 2024
Catalog Year : 2023-2024

CAR 600 - Foundations In Addictions


Description: The purpose of this course is to provide Scholars with foundational knowledge in Substance Use/Substance Use Disorders (SU/SUDs). Scholars will integrate and critique: 1) epidemiologic and surveillance SU/SUD data; 2) the intersection of social, behavioral, and biological determinants of addiction and recovery; 3) pharmacological basics of drug use; 4) co-occurring disorders; 5) prevention and resilience research; 6) screening, assessment, diagnosis, and culturally-centered evidence-based treatments and practices; 7) a review of research strategies pertaining to treatment effectiveness and sustainability; 8) the social impact of drug use and substance use disorders; 9) evaluation of policies and community initiatives that address addiction, and 10) the roles of community health workers (including promotoras de salud), and tribal health practices and ceremonies. The course will highlight the importance of involving community healers and leaders in the development of community-driven and culturally-centered addiction research projects. The relationship between COVID-19 and SU/SUDs will be highlighted as a key area for culturally tailored research. Scholars will explore the emic cultural processes that support sustainable research projects. Students will begin to operationalize research topics based on these foundational concepts in SU/SUD research. Letter grade only.

Units: 2

Sections offered: Fall 2024