Working with People with Substance Abuse Disorders

Populations in the Psychology Field
First/Last Name
Department of Psychology, Purdue University Global
PS115 Psychology and the Profession
Instructor’s name and title
Date
Populations in the Psychology Field
Characteristics of populations
Profession

Age

Setting

Area of Focus

ABA

12 and older

Any

Substance abuse

Which population(s) are you interested in working with? Why?
I am interested in working with people with substance abuse disorders because of the high prevalence of the conditions in the country and low treatment rates. According to a 2021 survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA] (2023), 21.9% of the US population had used illicit drugs in the last year. Furthermore, 9.2 million people aged 12 and above had misused opioids in the past year. In addition, 94% of individuals with substance abuse disorder aged 12 and above did not receive treatment majorly because they thought they did not need it. I believe substance abuse is a major problem that needs urgent solutions. In essence, I can be part of change to address this major problem in the nation.
Do you have any experience with any of these populations in a profession...