Behavioral addictions have increased in importance over the past few decades and are perhaps more relevant than ever with the legalization of sports betting across America. However, there is still debate about whether behavioral addictions exist. While some disordered behavior, such as gambling and gaming disorder, have recently received more widespread recognition (as demonstrated by inclusion or consideration in the DSM-5), others, such as sex or food-related addiction, remain controversial. What should we consider when categorizing behaviors as addictions, and how might categorizations impact science and practice? Dr. Josh Grubbs joins us to discuss the journey and complexities of behavioral addictions, whether they are similar or different from substance addictions, and how we might consider treating such conditions moving forward. Dr. Grubbs is an Associate Professor at the University of New Mexico and an investigator at the Center on Alcohol, Substance use, and Addictions (CASAA), where he studies compulsive sexual behavior disorder, gambling disorder, and personality characteristics. Find out more about his work here.
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1:03:56
Dr. Alexis Kuerbis - Substance Use and Aging
The world population is aging. In the United States alone, the population of older adults 65 and up is projected to nearlydouble by 2060, from 49 million in 2016 to 95 million people. This historic change in population demographics will require shifts in public health responses. In this episode, we spoke with Dr. Alexis Kuerbis about how older adults use substances, and the unique factors to consider when working with aging populations. Dr. Alexis Kuerbis is a Social Worker and Professor in the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College in the City University of New York and The Graduate Center at CUNY. Dr. Kuerbis also maintains a private practice in New York City. Learn more about her work here.
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1:26:03
Policy Brief: Dr. Lara Coughlin on SAMHSA Contingency Management Incentive Changes
On this Addiction Psychologist segment, we talk to experts about new policy developments to get a better understanding of the implications for our work, our clients, and our personal lives. On this episode, we talk with Dr. Lara Coughlin about the science of contingency management, recent changes in incentive allowance for contingency management, and how these changes might impact practice. Dr. Lara Coughlin is an assistant professor in the University of Michigan Addiction Center and Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Medical School, as well as the Director of the CHOICE lab, the Co-director of the Michigan Innovations in Addiction Care through Research and Education Program and the Faculty Lead of Mental Health Equity at the University of Michigan Eisenburg Family Depression Center. Learn more about contingency management here, and about the changes to allowable incentives here.
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13:23
Dr. Kirsten Smith - What has been happening in the world of Kratom?
Dr. Kirsten Smith joined us in June 2022 for a wonderful discussion about Kratom. In this episode, she updates us on the volatile changes that have occurred since our last discussion. Dr. Kirsten Smith is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit at Johns Hopkins University. If you haven't heard the first episode, make sure to have a listen to get caught up to speed on Kratom!
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1:12:53
Dr. Lindsay Squeglia - The Developing Adolescent Brain and Substance Use
Although risk of substance use disorder exists for anyone that uses substances, study after study shows that early initiation of substance use in adolescence is a strong predictor of later substance-related problems and is associated with higher risk . What is going on in the brain during adolescence, and how do substances affect it? Dr. Lindsay Squeglia discusses the development of the brain during adolescence and the risks of substance use during adolescence, and attempts to answer our questions about the chicken or the egg. Dr. Squeglia also talks about her efforts to create evidence-based psychoeducation programs about substance use for adolescents and programs to help teens get involved in science. Dr. Lindsay Squeglia is a Professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences in the College of Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, and a Co-Director of the MUSC Youth Collaborative. Find out more about her work here.
Drs. Noah Emery and Samuel Acuff interview researchers, clinicians, and policymakers in the field of addiction psychology with the hopes of enhancing recovery. Official podcast of the Society for Addiction Psychology.
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