Active learning ideas
Addiction is a complex condition characterised by a compulsive need to engage in a substance or activity despite harmful consequences. Students examine the difference between physical and psychological dependence and explore various explanations, including genetic vulnerability and peer influence. They also evaluate treatments such as aversion therapy and self-management programmes like Alcoholics Anonymous.
Activity 01
Students sit in a circle and pass around a 'temptation' (e.g., a phone or a snack). They must practice different ways to resist peer pressure using 'refusal skills', while the class observes which strategies are most effective.
What distinguishes addiction from a bad habit?
Activity 02
One side argues the 'medical model' (addiction is a brain disease/genetic), while the other argues the 'social learning model' (addiction is a learned behaviour). Students must use AQA-specific studies to back up their arguments.
How does peer influence contribute to addiction?
Activity 03
Posters around the room describe Aversion Therapy, CBT, and Self-Management. Students move in pairs to list the 'pros and cons' of each, focusing on things like cost, long-term effectiveness, and ethics.
Can aversion therapy successfully treat addiction?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Addiction only applies to drugs and alcohol.
Addiction can also be behavioural, such as gambling or internet use. A 'sorting' activity where students categorise different behaviours can help them identify the common psychological markers of all addictions.
Aversion therapy is a 'cure' for addiction.
While it can create a temporary dislike, it often fails in the long term because it doesn't address the underlying reasons for the addiction. A debate on 'relapse' helps students understand why holistic treatments are often needed.
Methods used in this brief
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