SOWK 394

This course will provide students with the theoretical knowledge and introductory social work practice skills needed to work with people with substance use/misuse concerns and/or addictive behaviours from an evidence-based, social work perspective. Students will explore various theoretical perspectives of substance use, including the bio/psycho/social/spiritual model, strengths-based practice, and harm reduction. Other specific topics include an overview of psychoactive drugs; the use/misuse/abuse continuum; individual, family, and community issues; ethics in the field of addiction; social costs and policy issues related to substance use/misuse; co-occurring disorders; HIV/AIDS; prevention issues; and treatment of addictions (including motivational interviewing and the stages of change). The particular focus of social work and related professions in the continuum of care will also be examined. Students are expected to actively participate in class discussions and problem-based learning activities. There will be emphasis on issues related to indigenous people, gender, ethnicity, culture, LGBTQ persons, age, and disability. -- Prerequisite -- 45 university-level credits, including PSYC 101, with a CGPA of 2.5 or greater; or admission to the MSW program; or permission of the School. -- Corequisite -- None. -- Pre or Corequisite -- None. Section information text: Instructional Method - Online only. No meeting times. Note: in-person exams may apply to some online courses.