Social Scientific Addiction Research (DHV340)
The aim of the course is to provide insight into selected theoretical and methodological approaches for understanding and analyzing substance use and addiction as a social and multidisciplinary phenomenon.
Course description for study year 2025-2026
Course code
DHV340
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
2
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English
Content
Drawing on empirical cases from current research and real-world scenarios, this course aims to employ theoretical and methodological tools for contextualizing and analyzing substance use and addiction. It will thoroughly explore and critically review various aspects, including societal regulations, policies, and cultural attitudes towards substance use. Furthermore, it will examine how society responds when substance use becomes problematic and address service provision and development. Moreover, the course will delve into the lived experiences of citizens and their social networks, carefully examining the social dynamics of prevalent substance use and addiction. It will also explore how individuals might be affected and marginalized, as well as the relationships citizens have with local communities and service providers.
Learning outcome
The following learning outcomes will be achieved by the PhD candidate on completion of the course:
Knowledge
The PhD candidate:
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is in the forefront of knowledge in the field of substance use and addiction, with a special focus on social, public health and multidisciplinary perspectives
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can evaluate the expediency and application of different theories and methods in the field of social scientific substance use and addiction research
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can contribute to the development of new knowledge, new theories, methods, interpretations, and forms of documentation in the field of substance use and addiction
Skills
By the end of the course, the PhD candidate will be able to:
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can formulate problems, plan and carry out research and scholarly development work on substance use and addiction in a social and multidisciplinary perspective
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can carry out research and scholarly research work of high international standard and analyze relationships between policy, legal regulation, the availability and use of public services and citizens lived experience
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can handle complex academic issues regarding substance use and addiction and challenge established knowledge and practice in the field
General competence
By the end of the course, the PhD candidate:
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can identity new relevant ethical issues in social scientific substance use and addiction research, and carry out his/her research with scholarly integrity
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can manage complex interdisciplinary assignments and projects
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can communicate research and development work through recognized Norwegian and international channels
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can participate in debates in the field in international forums
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can assess the need for, initiate and practice innovation
Required prerequisite knowledge
Master level within medicine, health sciences, societal safety, social science, or similar educations.
Exam
Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|
Individual paper | 1/1 | Passed / Not Passed |
Coursework requirements
Prepare a selection of self-chosen peer-reviewed literature of approximately 500 pages relevant for the course paper. A draft of the course paper must be submitted one week ahead of the second seminar, where a presentation of the paper will be given.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Anne Schanche SelbekkCourse coordinator:
Ingunn StudsrødMethod of work
The course consists of 2 seminars and self-study. The seminars will include plenary debates and participant presentations. A detailed timetable will be made available at the beginning of the course.
Open for
PhD candidates enrolled in PhD programmes at the University of Stavanger or other accredited universities/university colleges in Norway or abroad.