Categories of psychoactive drugs: depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens.

PSYCHOLOGY I

MODULE 9 PROJECT: PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS

There are three categories of psychoactive drugs: depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens. In addition, there are a number of drugs in each category. All of these drugs are chemicals that have the ability to change moods and perceptions by their actions in the user’s neural synapses. These drugs vary in the way they are used and with their severity on the person, but they all alter an individual’s natural make-up and some are powerfully addictive and can be lethal.

For this project, you will be creating a brochure or pamphlet detailing the categories of psychoactive drugs, and information about specific drugs in each category. Each category of drug, and each specific drug in each category, should be explained. Be sure to include: name of the drug, explanation of the drug, its impact on the body – physical, emotional, mental, important statistics, withdrawal symptoms, and any other important information.

 

The specific requirements for the project are as follows

ResearchUse the Psychology textbook and other resources to research your assigned topic

Brochure/Pamphlet

• Each category of drug needs to be explained (depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens)
• Specific drugs for each category need to be explained (refer to the graphic organizer that is on the back of this page. It contains all the names of the specific drugs.
• Be sure to include: name of drug(s), explanation of the drug, its impact on the body – physical, emotional, and mental – important statistics, withdrawal symptoms, etc.
• Include visuals within your brochure/pamphlet for each drug

Due Date: Must be submitted by 7:40 AM on Friday September 29!

Graphic organizer on back.

Psychoactive Drugs: Chemical substances that alter perceptions, moods, or behaviors.

Category 1: Depressants

            Drugs that reduce neural activity and slow body functions.

1. Alcohol
2. Barbiturates
3. Opiates

Category 2: Stimulants

            Drugs that excite neural activity and speed up body functions.

1. Caffeine
2. Nicotine
3. Cocaine
4. Amphetamines (Meth)
5. Ecstasy

 

Category 3: Hallucinogens

Psychedelic drugs that distort perceptions and evoke sensory images in the absence of sensory input.

1. Marijuana
2. LSD

For the Psychoactive Drugs Brochure, you should be explaining each drug in each category. Your explanation needs to include the following: name of drug, explanation of the drug, its impact on the body – physical, emotional, and mental – important statistics, withdrawal symptoms, etc.

 

Also make sure you include visuals within your brochure/pamphlet for each drug.