Why are some drugs highly addictive? What exactly are the effects of different types of psychoactive drugs? How can they produce such dramatic effects on mood, cognition, sensation, awareness, health and well-being? Understanding Drugs and Behaviour describes in detail how the main psychoactive drugs can alter brain chemistry and modify behaviour. Basic drug effects tolerance and addiction, are discussed, together with diverse medical, social, and psychological reasons for drug taking.Written by experienced lecturers with a high level of research expertise, all the main drugs used in today's society are included, such as alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, LSD and Ecstacy, opiates, CNS stimulants, as well as clinical medications. Teaching and learning features include: Chapter overviews In-depth core material End of chapter questions Key references Extensive glossary Journals and websites of interest This introductory text will be of use to students of psychology, behavioural sciences, health sciences, nursing, physiology and pharmacology.