Psychology: An Introduction Chapter 4 -- Drug Use, Abuse, and Addiction: Focus on Alcohol

Chapter 4: States of Consciousness
Drug Use, Abuse, and Addiction: Focus on Alcohol

Some altered states of consciousness, like sleep and dreaming, are essential to our survival. Other states, such as those induced by alcohol and other psychoactive drugs, may threaten that survival. This Web Investigation will examine "� the most frequently used psychoactive drug in Western society�" � alcohol. Alcohol is a drug that can be said to cause individual and social problems for more people than any other psychoactive substance, including those more heavily regulated or restricted. As you work through this Web Investigation, you will find information about substance abuse, commonly abused substances, alcohol�s effects on brain chemistry, the causes of alcohol dependency and addiction, and legislative efforts to deal with the problems of alcohol abuse.

To begin the activity, click the "Begin" button below. When you have finished, return to this page and answer the following questions.

Does your school have a culture that promotes or discourages alcohol use among students? What elements of this culture contribute to your answer?

Does your school�s culture reflect the values of the broader society concerning alcohol use? Why or why not?

The United States rejected outright prohibition of alcohol in 1933. However, as both the text and this Web Investigation note, alcohol-related social problems are a major factor in reducing the quality of life in the U.S. Are there alternative responses to the problems of alcohol dependency and addiction besides prohibition? If so, what are they?

Will the pending change from 0.10 to 0.08 BAL (Blood Alcohol Level) result in a safer society in your view? Why or why not?

While a particular BAL defines legal intoxication, can serious impairment occur at lower levels and rates of alcohol consumption? If so, how? How would a responsible person prepare for his or her own alcohol consumption and that of others?

An acquaintance of yours boasts to you that he can "handle his liquor" because he can "drink like a fish" and still appear sober. From your review of the material in this unit, what does his boast about alcohol tolerance really indicate and why?