Psychology of addiction and substance abuse PSYC 324
Proposal Summary:
The proposed example of substance use portrayal in the media for the Major Paper is the critically acclaimed television series “Breaking Bad.” “Breaking Bad” tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, and his former student, Jesse Pinkman. The show explores the transformation of Walter from a mild-mannered family man to a ruthless drug lord, and the complex dynamics between him, Jesse, and other characters involved in the drug trade. The portrayal of substance use in “Breaking Bad” is central to the narrative, highlighting the consequences, moral dilemmas, and the destructive power of addiction. By analyzing this example, the Major Paper aims to examine the ways in which the media portrays substance use, its impact on individuals and society, and the ethical considerations involved in such portrayals.
In completing this assignment, students will delve into the intricacies of “Breaking Bad” as a media representation of substance use. They will analyze the portrayal of drug addiction, the psychological and physical effects of substance abuse, and the various social, economic, and legal implications associated with the illicit drug trade. Furthermore, the exploration will include an examination of the show’s narrative techniques, character development, and the broader cultural and societal influences that may shape audience perceptions of substance use. Through this in-depth analysis, the Major Paper will provide a comprehensive understanding of how “Breaking Bad” contributes to the larger discourse on substance use in the media and its implications for public opinion, policy, and social attitudes towards addiction.
– Articulate basic drug terminology and drug taking behavior
– Identify the various addictive substances – legal and illegal – and their classifications
– Analyze the reasons people commonly abuse substances
– Analyze how substances affect the mind and body and society
Preparation
Step One: Read the AAP Policy Statement located below. Make some notes for yourself about points of agreement or disagreement you have with the statement and specific findings regarding media depictions of substance use that you want to assess when you write the paper.
Step Two: Find a current example of substance use portrayal seen in the media; for example, scenes from a movie, a television show, or a commercial; print ads; or portrayals found in “new media” as discussed in the AAP article. The Internet is a good tool for finding film or television portrayals of substance use as well as examples of print ads if ready access to first-hand media is not available. A two paragraph summary of the proposed example of substance use portrayal in the media that will be used for the paper is due by the end of Week 3. This proposal is a separate assignment and is worth 100 points and 5% of the overall course grade.
Construction
Step Three: Write the paper. Begin the paper with an introduction that summarizes the main findings of the AAP article and previews what will be covered in the coming pages. Next, compare and contrast the portrayal of substance use found in the media with the information learned about that substance in the class and course readings. What messages about the substance are being portrayed? How accurate are those messages relative to the actual data on substance use? Be sure to cite the course readings as needed.
Continue by comparing and contrasting the portrayal of substance use found in the media with the criticism of media portrayals found in the AAP paper. Does the media example match their arguments or contradict them? What links and connections can be made? Be sure to cite the article as needed.
Next, draw some conclusions about the portrayal of substance use found in the media, addressing the following: What are the implications of this type of portrayal? What messages are being sent and to whom? Are those messages an accurate representation of the use of this substance? Should media portrayals be required to be accurate in their depictions of use, showing both positive and negative consequences?
Finally, review the guidelines suggested by the AAP at the end of their policy statement and address the following: Although directed specifically at pediatricians, which of those recommendations is most important? Why? Are these recommendations necessary? If followed, will they be effective in addressing the concerns raised earlier in the article? Be sure to cite sources as needed.
Step Four:
On submission your work will auto-run through Turnitin.com’s plagiarism checker software.