Discussion Questions
Chapter 7: The Drugs
1. If you had to explain the difference between tolerance and dependence to someone,
what would you say? How would you explain cross-tolerance? How would you describe
the differences from psychological, physical, and behavioral perspectives?
2. Why are psychoactive drugs classified by their primary action on the central nervous
system?
3. Some people might be surprised to find alcohol listed as a drug. Do you believe alcohol
should be listed as a drug? Why or why not?
4. In this chapter, you were provided with specific information regarding categories of
drugs. Break into groups of 3-4. Each group is to come to a group decision based on
which drug they believe to be the most dangerous. Be prepared to defend your decision
in a large group discussion.
5. Many prescribed drugs have a potential for abuse, tolerance, and addiction. How does
this fact impact the medical profession? Patients? Treatment professionals?
6. Think about the information provided in the chapter regarding treatment outcome
studies. What surprised you the most about the outcomes of the three primary studies
discussed in the chapter? How would you use this information to advocate for changes
in treatment settings?