PYB360 Interventions for Addictive Behaviours

Unit Outline: Flexible Period - 08A 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal (Start Date: 29 Jun 2026)

Overview

Addictive behaviours (e.g., arising from alcohol use, tobacco use, gambling) are recognised as major problems nationally and internationally. This unit focuses predominantly on psychological aspects of addictive behaviours. The unit has a focus on the interdisciplinary nature of work within the field, including complementary treament approaches and interdisciplinary communication.  To evaluate core scientific perspectives on addiction theory, classes initially review issues relating to psychological models of addiction and methods of studying addictive behaviours. Symptomatology, aetiology and assessment of addictive behaviours, as well as the theoretical underpinnings of a range of therapeutic interventions are also discussed. Following on from PYB159, this unit aims to prepare graduates for a potential career in Alcohol and Drug services.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Evaluate the nature, etiology and epidemiology of addictive behaviours and the research methods used in this area.
2. Discriminate between relevant diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders and explore the related issues of multiple diagnoses, comorbidity and risk factors.
3. Formulate a rationale for, and apply knowledge to, the process of clinical assessment in the area of addictive behaviours.
4. Specify the different types of individual, group and community based treatment strategies for addictive behaviours and critically evaluate empirical support for these strategies
5. Use critical thinking to clearly articulate key interpersonal and therapy processes and interventions based on case formulations that impact on addictive behaviours and associated problems.

Content

Learning Approaches

This unit is conducted in block mode (five consecutive full days). A blend of formal lectures, online video resources and small group work will be delivered in a one-week intensive program, with assessment due in the weeks following classes. Lectures are intended to provide the theoretical foundations of this subject area, and where possible, guest speakers including researchers and practitioners in the area will be invited to speak to you. Small group activities will provide you with the opportunity to apply and consolidate knowledge you have acquired in lectures and will include opportunities for small group project work. 

The Canvas site provides embedded support for learning through the provision of writing resources. Face to face and online learning is conducted in such a way that there is peer and teacher guidance and feedback.  Writing resources include links and videos about APA style, finding articles, paraphrasing, and academic integrity. Moreover, SSG offers online resources, targeted email support and activities, as well as face-to-face and Zoom workshops. 

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

This unit is designed to engage you in real-world issues. You will receive feedback in this unit through formative and summative feedback. General formative feedback will also be provided in the classes during the intensive block. Summative feedback will be provided through the assessment tasks detailed below.

Assessment

Overview

Continuous assessment is employed including a case study and critical analysis, and an exam. The written assessment will focus on real-world issues in addiction studies. The assessment items aim to strengthen your skills by providing you with constructive feedback as well as to evaluate the overall standard of achievement in this unit. Written assignments in this unit will be submitted electronically. You will be required to submit your written assignments via content-matching software. Assignments will be marked online and your feedback will be supplied via Canvas.

This is an internally offered unit; students are required to attend examinations in person, on QUT Brisbane campuses.  The exam will occur on campus and is only offered in face-to-face format.

Note that prior to release of marks, the unit coordinator undertakes a moderation process to ensure that individual markers have applied criteria and standards consistently and fairly. From time to time there are errors made in marking (for example, mistakes in adding up or missing sections of a submission). If you find such errors, you should approach the unit coordinator immediately. Actively reading the feedback provided will enhance your learning success. 

Final grades are not confirmed until reviewed by the relevant Faculty Assessment Committee and approved by the Executive Dean at the completion of each teaching period.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Critical Analysis Case Study

A case study will be provided to you. You will be asked to write a plan on how a psychologist may manage the client (<2000 words). You will discuss best practices of assessment and therapy. You will be encouraged to provide evidence in favour of your plan and decision and indicate how it is supported by the literature. This assignment will give you the opportunity to demonstrate and extend skills in the following areas: information literacy, digital capabilities, critical thinking and evaluation, and written communication. Due date to be advised by first class.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.

Assessment: Examination (Theory)

A final examination using a range of question types, including multiple choice and short answer questions. The exam questions will be based on the compulsory reading and the material presented throughout the lectures and tutorials.

The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.

The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Resource Materials

Recommended text(s)

Capuzzi, D. & Stauffer, M.D. (2014). Foundations of Addictions Counseling. 3rd Ed. New Jersey: Pearson.

Other

Items will be placed at QUT Readings during the course of the semester for your use. References will also be included in your workbook.

Risk Assessment Statement

You should be aware that some content in this unit may be confronting to certain audiences. Please exercise your own discretion when participating in classroom activities or discussions and, if appropriate, advise teaching staff if you do not wish to participate. The QUT Student Counselling service is also available and free of charge to all QUT students.

Course Learning Outcomes

PY45 Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)

1. Describe and evaluate the core scientific perspectives of psychology with reference to theories, methods and research, from diverse perspectives, including first-nations perspectives.
   Relates to: Critical Analysis Case Study, Examination (Theory)
2. Critically examine the scientific discipline of psychological research and theories using oral, written and digital communication to address psychological issues in a respectful, ethical and professional manner.
   Relates to: Critical Analysis Case Study, Examination (Theory)
3. Employ strategies for self-reflection, with regards to your conduct, values and impact on others and the profession in a culturally sensitive, inclusive, ethical and sustainable way.
   Relates to: Critical Analysis Case Study
4. Implement a range of digital capabilities to access, examine and utilise evidence-based information in the context of effectively responding to, and communicating, real world problems.
   Relates to: Critical Analysis Case Study