Concepts of Chemical Dependency

Completely rewritten from cover to cover, the contemporary new 8th edition of CONCEPTS OF CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY, International Edition provides comprehensive coverage and the latest information on a full spectrum of substance use disorders and the compounds commonly abused. Topics include: the abuse of and addiction to alcohol; how the active agent in marijuana, THC, affects neural growth and development; the emerging body of evidence suggesting a relationship between marijuana abuse and psychotic disorders; the emerging body of evidence suggesting that marijuana is not as benign as it was thought to be even a few years ago; and updated information on the abuse of cough syrups, a trend that has evolved in adolescent substance abusers in the past decade.
Adding to the book's usefulness and relevance, Doweiko also covers topics not usually discussed in other substance abuse texts, including: abuse of anabolic steroids; inhalants; many of the forms of infectious disease associated with substance abuse; how the "war on drugs" has actually contributed to the problem of substance abuse/addiction in this country; the relationship between substance abuse and many infectious diseases; and the latest information on the "medical marijuana" debate.
Providing a comprehensive overview of the problems of substance abuse and addiction, students report that they appreciate the author's balanced approach in contrast to a tendency to "preach" to the reader that "drugs are bad for you." Student feedback indicates that they value the clear and detailed information provided, allowing the student to form their own opinion about the compound(s) being discussed in each chapter.

Features

Focuses on important issues to consider when working with clients, such as the effect of chemicals on neonates; the dually diagnosed client; chemical abuse by children and adolescents; codependency and enabling; and addiction and the family.
Presents clear guidelines and strategies for human service workers - including evaluation, intervention techniques, treatment, recovery, and common problems in treatment to help students work effectively with clients.
Enhances opportunities for students to review and expand their knowledge with Chapter-by-chapter online quizzes and an end-of-book glossary give.
Features a new expanded chapter, "Women and Addiction" (Chapter 18).
Includes expanded information about Dextromethorphan, which has emerged as a major drug of abuse in the past few years, in Chapter 36 "Crime and Drug Use".