Drugs in Society

This subject is not offered in 2008.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

TThis subject is an introduction to alcohol and drug use in the context of public health policy, practice and societal responses. Students will gain an understanding of drug use and the role that drugs play for the individual and society. Students will gain an understanding of the history of drug use and policy responses, as well as theories of use and models of dependence. The social implications of drug use and examples of public health responses will also be covered. Students will be able to understand the interdependence of research and policy development as these relate to the effects of drugs upon both the individual and society more widely. The effects of drugs within special populations such as indigenous people and people with mental health problems will be covered. Students will be given a variety of resources to enhance their understanding and practice in this field.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Level: 500

This subject is a Group 1 elective in the Master of Public Health.