Watch The Addictive Brain

The Addictive Brain, part of The Great Courses Signature Collection, is a fascinating and informative look at the various ways in which addiction impacts the human brain. The course is presented by Thad A. Polk, a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, who takes viewers on a tour of the brain's reward circuitry, examining the biological mechanisms that underlie addictive behaviors.

Over the course of 12 half-hour episodes, Polk explores the neuroscience of addiction, examining substance abuse, gambling addiction, and even social media addiction. He starts by examining the brain's natural reward system, explaining how the brain releases dopamine and other chemicals in response to pleasurable stimuli. He also explains how this reward system can become hijacked by addiction, leading to compulsive behaviors and a host of physical and psychological problems.

Through a combination of research studies and real-world case examples, Polk illustrates how addiction can impact people of all ages and backgrounds. He explains why some people are more prone to addiction than others, and examines the different types of addiction, from drug and alcohol addiction to behavioral addictions such as gambling and internet addiction.

Polk also delves into the psychology of addiction, exploring the ways in which environmental and social factors can contribute to addictive behaviors. He examines the role of stress, anxiety, and trauma in addiction, as well as the way that social and economic factors can influence the prevalence of addiction in different communities.

Throughout the course, Polk offers practical advice for those struggling with addiction, as well as for health professionals and those seeking to understand and treat addictive behaviors. He discusses the importance of early intervention and offers strategies for preventing addiction from taking hold in the first place.

The Addictive Brain is a thought-provoking and insightful course that offers a comprehensive look at the biological and psychological factors that contribute to addiction. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the science of addiction, as well as for anyone who has been impacted by addiction in their own life or the life of a loved one. The course is presented in an engaging and accessible style, making it accessible to viewers of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge.

The Addictive Brain is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between and on The Great Courses Signature Collection