Main description:

This textbook surveys the current knowledge on substance use disorders (SUD), summarizing scientific evidence from numerous fields. It uses a biopsychosocial framework to integrate the many factors that contribute to addictions, from genetic predispositions, neurological responses caused by drugs, co-occurring psychiatric disorders, personality traits, and developmental conditions to cultural influences. Real-life vignettes and first-person accounts build understanding of the lived experience of addiction. The currently accepted practices for diagnosis and treatment are presented, including the role of 12-step programmes and other mutual-assistance groups. The text also investigates the research methods that form the foundation of evidence-based knowledge. The main body text is augmented by study guideposts such as learning objectives, review exercises, highlighted key terms, and chapter summaries, which enable more efficient comprehension and retention of the book's material.

Contents:

List of figures; List of tables; List of boxes; Preface; Acknowledgements; Organization of the book; Part I. Identifying the Causes and Consequences of Disordered Substance Use; 1.The biopsychosocial perspective and research methods for investigation of substance use disorders; 2. Diagnosis of substance use disorders; 3. The disease concept; Part II. The Neuroscience of Substance Use Disorders; 4. Psychopharmacology: drug effects on brain function; 5. Brain function and substance use disorders; Part III. Biopsychosocial Risk Factors; 6. Genetic influence on substance use disorders; 7. Behavioral, cognitive and social factors promoting SUD; 8. Psychiatric disorders, personality and developmental factors; Part IV. Use Disorders with Specific Drugs; 9. Alcohol: a dangerous drug; 10. Alcohol use disorders; 11. Tobacco use and nicotine addiction; 12. Cannabis use disorders; 13. Use disorders of cocaine and methamphetamine; 14. Opioid use disorders; 15. Tranquilizers and sedative use disorders; Part V. Treatment of Substance Use Disorders; 16. Treatment of substance use disorders; References; Index