One of the major assignments in this course is the completion of a final paper about a particular area of interest you have related to substance use issues. Examples of some topics are: an in-depth exploration of a particular population (youth, affected family members, elders, etc.); further exploration regarding epidemiology or etiology of substance use disorders in a particular group or geographic region; an in-depth look at state and federal policies related to substance use disorders (prevention, treatment, criminalization, etc); comparing and contrasting approaches to treatment and recovery, etc. The topic should be current and relevant. Please include a multi-systemic and multi-level social work perspective.

The first step in writing the paper is defining the issue.

Defining the Issue:

Using APA format/citations, address each of the following in 4 well-developed paragraphs:

• What is the proposed issue (problem or controversy) this paper will explore? Briefly discuss the extent/current status of the issue and affected population using cited evidence.
• What factors may have caused or contributed to this issue? Provide a summary with cited evidence.
• What additional 2-3 research questions do you want to explore? How could the answers potentially impact social work practice or social policy?
• Include a working (in progress) References page.

As you continue to research and write your paper draft, you will be determining your focus – the eventual thesis statement. The thesis will sum up a conclusion reached about this issue and the main reason for this conclusion.

Consult the grading rubric