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Pharmacology of Addiction

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Pharmacology of Addiction
Pharmacology of Addiction

1. List and discuss four reasons why drugs are abused.

There are many reasons why drugs get abused: For instance Peer Pressure, I feel it’s the leading cause. Some people will do anything to fit in with certain crowds and people that they will turn to drugs if “everyone” else is doing it. Another reason is to escape, or to forget about their problems, worries, and stress. Some drugs offer a tranquilizing effect that can make a person happy or calmer. Also, learned behavior is a big reason, if a child is growing up in an environment where drugs are all around and easy to access they may become interested in trying it and become hooked. A fourth reason is pleasure, some drugs offer a euphoric feeling that seldom feels. Once that feeling is experienced it can be wanted more often and a continuous thing. (http://www.ehow.com/about_5427920_people-abuse-drugs.html)

2. Go to the publisher’s web site at http://health.jbpub.com/drugsandsociety/10e choosing the content links for the chapters in the unit research to find out the mission and purpose of the following governmental agencies, write a short paragraph about each agencies mission and purpose.

NIDA- The mission is to lead the nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. Two critical components: one being strategic support and conduct of research across a range of disciplines. Also, to ensure the rapid and effective dissemination and use of the results of research to improve preventing and treatment of drug abuse and addiction. (http://www.drugabuse.gov/)

Office of National Drug Control Policy- The mission is working to break the cycle of drug use, crime, and incarceration through drug courts. Also, restore balance to U.S. drug control efforts by coordinating a government wide public health and safety approach to reduce drug use. Obama has committed over $10 billion in drug education programs along with expanding access to

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