Last month we looked at the intriguing public profile of one of America's modern day presidential candidates ... Donald Trump. We discussed how on earth this character had become a viable national and global leader. A short look at some of his family history provided some insight. Amongst many theories, operant & inoperant conditioning could be said to have played a key role in role in the stunning "how did we get to this point in global leadership"?
This month we looked at the nature of addiction - to both food and substances. Addiction is an inability to stop using a substance (could be food) or engaging in a behavior (could be exercise) even though it is causing psychological and physical harm. The term addiction does not only refer to dependence on substances such as heroin or cocaine.
Beginning with a not uncommon experience - addiction to carbs.. we discussed the psychological, social and biochemical response underway when we just can't stop at one bun. Moving on to the more common association with "addiction", that is to "drugs", including alcohol and nicotine, we considered these same responses and the implications for families, community and individuals.
This month we looked at the nature of addiction - to both food and substances. Addiction is an inability to stop using a substance (could be food) or engaging in a behavior (could be exercise) even though it is causing psychological and physical harm. The term addiction does not only refer to dependence on substances such as heroin or cocaine.
Beginning with a not uncommon experience - addiction to carbs.. we discussed the psychological, social and biochemical response underway when we just can't stop at one bun. Moving on to the more common association with "addiction", that is to "drugs", including alcohol and nicotine, we considered these same responses and the implications for families, community and individuals.
Finally we listened to Robin Williams, the very talented, intelligent and insightful comedian who shared his own struggles with addiction - see the PowerPoint.
The picture below offers a visual image of the impact of different substances, including caffeine, on a spiders' web design. Fascinating!
NEXT .. AND FINAL MEETING:
Date/time: 18 June 10:00 - 12:00 noon - we must begin to wrap up at 11:45 fand have left the room by 12 noon for the next group ... please remind me:)
Location: U3A room, Fawckner Drive, Seniors/Elders building
Following this session, participants will be eligible to participate in the Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group. The group is held third Thursday of the month 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the RSL rooms Nunn Street. This is a discussion group. The purpose of the group is to apply (if possible) a psychological interpretation to an everyday matter, be it local, national and/or international. Looking forward to welcoming you next semester.
Jane Rushworth
Date/time: 18 June 10:00 - 12:00 noon - we must begin to wrap up at 11:45 fand have left the room by 12 noon for the next group ... please remind me:)
Location: U3A room, Fawckner Drive, Seniors/Elders building
Following this session, participants will be eligible to participate in the Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group. The group is held third Thursday of the month 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the RSL rooms Nunn Street. This is a discussion group. The purpose of the group is to apply (if possible) a psychological interpretation to an everyday matter, be it local, national and/or international. Looking forward to welcoming you next semester.
Jane Rushworth
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