Module 1
An active discussion is the key to an interesting and engaging online course. Discussion in this course is designed to simulate a brick and mortar classroom discussion. Rather than having each of you post a “mini paper” in response to the discussion questions, we will go through the questions as a group, one question at a time. As you join in the discussion, you should read what has already been posted and then add substantively to what has been written.
The modules in this course are one week in length. When the clock ticks at midnight on Sunday evening, your next module begins. So, remember that time goes quickly and you should, therefore, post early! Get in the habit of checking the discussions as often as you can to see what others have posted, and then respond accordingly to your classmates and me. The earlier in the week that you post, the deeper the conversation and learning will be. We will all go through each question, one at a time. I will to assist you with the transition to the next question.
By the end of our discussion together, we will be able to distinguish between abuse and dependence and identify the changing patterns of use over the life cycle and the factors that influence these changes. We will also delineate some of the reasons why abuse and dependence are so prevalent in our culture.
First, let’s start with a reflection question that does not require you to have read your readings yet.
With your own opinion.Over the next eight weeks, we will be discussing a societal problem with painful consequences for individuals, families, communities, and for our society as a whole. And yet, the media often portrays use of alcohol and other substances in a highly positive and desirable way. Much of what is presented may glamorize use and present alcohol and/or drugs as a necessity toward living a happy, normal life and being accepted by our peers.
1) First question: Is there a particular song, movie, or even commercial that stands out to you for the ways in which it glamorizes the use of particular substances? What messages does it portray?
Now read material give. After completing the reading, let’s apply what we are learning to a discussion about changes in patterns over a lifetime. We will go through the questions, one at a time. I will guide you through each question.
Now applying our readings: First, let’s talk together about how and when people start drinking.
2) Question two: Do our patterns of use change over time or is there a static nature to use? What are some of the influences that impact an individual’s use across the developmental stages of life, as a pre-teen or teenager? As a young adult, perhaps a college student? A parent? How about as a retiree?
3) Now, let’s compare the drinking patterns of young adults with middle age and older individuals. What are some of the key differences of these two groups? What factors do you think contribute to these differences? Why is it important to remain aware of these factors?
As you discuss, consider some of the rites of passage that may influence drinking patterns, such as moving out of the home for the first time, going to college as a young adult, retirement, and empty nesting.
4) As we close out our first discussion together, let’s consider what we have learned about patterns of substance use/abuse and who may be impacted. Many media reports call addiction “the great leveler” in that it affects people of all walks of life. Why do you think substance use has such a powerful draw to such a diverse population?
We will be discussing each question together as a group, one at a time. As you create your posts, remember that the goal is an informed, dynamic conversation. Be creative in your headings. There is no “right” or “wrong” response, but you should demonstrate an ability to relate the module materials to the discussion questions in an articulate, well-reasoned manner.
