For this task, you will prepare a brief reaction paper that addresses the following questions:
What is meant by the statement that substance abuse occurs on a continuum? Do you accept this idea, or do you think that there are fundamentally different characteristics which separate substance use from substance abuse or addiction?
The costs of substance use disorders in our society are significant. What are some of the specific contributing factors that are behind some of these costs?
Do you think that the problem of substance abuse is blown out of proportion by the media, or perhaps underreported? Explain your position.
Use at least three articles from peer-reviewed journals published in the past 5 years to support your points of view. In addition to these specified resources, other appropriate scholarly resources, including older articles, may be included. Note any ways that the critical thinking module helped clarify your thoughts.
Length: 5-7 pages
Your paper should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts presented in the course by providing new thoughts and insights relating directly to this topic. Your response should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards.
