Javascript is currently not supported, or is disabled by this browser. Please enable Javascript for full functionality.

   
    Feb 02, 2026  
American University Catalog 2025-2026 
    
American University Catalog 2025-2026

PSYC-240 Drugs and Behavior (3)


This introduction to psychoactive drugs and their effects includes an overview of general physiology, neurochemistry, and pharmacology as well as a survey of the basic physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral effects of drugs. The course focuses on the etiology of drug use and the factors involved in, and consequences of, drug abuse, addiction and dependence. Critical evaluation of research methodology in drug assessment is stressed. AU Core Habits of Mind: Natural-Scientific Inquiry. Corequisite: PSYC-241 . Note: Completion of PSYC-240 and PSYC-241  with grades of C or better fulfills AU Core Habits of Mind: Natural-Scientific Inquiry.