Addiction

The following questions appear onscreen in the video. Feel free to integrate them into your lesson plan as needed.

 
Questions to consider before watching the video:

• What does it mean to be addicted to something? Think of substances that cause addiction. As you watch the program, consider how different systems in the body react as a person becomes chemically dependent.
• Note specific damage done to the brain, liver, and lungs when someone abuses alcohol, nicotine, or drugs.

Questions to consider after watching the video:

• Genetic research has shown that some people inherit a predisposition to addiction. What precautions can be taken to avoid chemical reliance?
• Compare and contrast the brain chemistry of an addict with that of a nonaddict.
• What makes breaking the cycle of addiction difficult?

Suggested activity
Compare and contrast the addictive behaviors associated with two or more substances. Make a chart of the physical, emotional, and social effects of these addictions. Include possible treatments.