Social Scientific Addiction Research (DHV340)

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:

• 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

• can evaluate the expediency and application of different theories and methods in the field of social scientific substance use and addiction research

• 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:

• can formulate problems, plan and carry out research and scholarly development work on substance use and addiction in a social and multidisciplinary perspective

• 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

• 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:

• can identity new relevant ethical issues in social scientific substance use and addiction research, and carry out his/her research with scholarly integrity

• can manage complex interdisciplinary assignments and projects

• can communicate research and development work through recognized Norwegian and international channels

• can participate in debates in the field in international forums

• 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

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:

Course coordinator:

Method 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. 

Course assessment

Literature