Addiction and Addictive Behaviours in Contemporary Society

PSYCB1006 Addiction and Addictive Behaviours in Contemporary Society

This unit introduces students to the psychological, social, developmental, and cultural factors associated with addiction and addictive behaviours in contemporary society. Students critically examine both substance-related and behavioural addictions, including alcohol and other drug use, gambling, gaming, social media, and online behaviours. The unit explores how individual, interpersonal, environmental, and societal factors interact to influence behavioural patterns, vulnerability and risk. Students also investigate the impacts of addiction on individuals, families, and communities, while examining evidence-based approaches to prevention, harm reduction, treatment recovery, and support. Through contemporary research, case studies and real-world applications, students develop evidence-informed perspectives on addiction across health, community, and justice contexts.

Commonwealth supported place (CSP)

A CSP is subsidised by the Australian Government and students pay a contribution amount. Each unit is classified into a band, depending on the study area of the unit (this discipline may be different from the study area of your course).

2026 contribution amount* $592
2026 grandfathered contribution amount^ $592

^ If you are a continuing student who commenced your course before 1 January 2021, you will continue paying the same amount as you would have, had legislative reforms not been implemented, for any units that would otherwise have an increased student contribution amount.

* For Psychology and Social Work bands the unit fee amount is determined by accredited courses. Students in Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, Professional Pathway Psychology or Professional Pathway Social Work accredited courses should refer to the information below.

Domestic full fee–paying places

A domestic full fee–paying place is one that isn’t subsidised by the Australian Government. These places are offered to postgraduate students or those who are ineligible for a CSP. Domestic postgraduate tuition fees are course-based annual fees, which means individual unit fees vary according to the degree. Find our more about domestic tuition fees and view the relevant fee schedule.

International full fee–paying places

International tuition fees are course-based annual fees and the unit fee you pay will vary according to the degree you are studying. Find out more about international tuition fees and view the relevant fee schedule.

Course or unit outline