Think Critically Do people use psychoactive drugs to increase or decrease their level of awareness? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Psychoactive drugs can be used to both increase and decrease a person's level of awareness depending on the type of drug and its intended use. Depressants may be used to decrease awareness and escape from distress, while stimulants can heighten awareness and alertness. Hallucinogens, on the other hand, alter the nature of reality perception, leading to a different type of awareness.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Psychoactive Drugs

It is crucial to get the fundamental understanding of psychoactive drugs. These drugs have the potential to influence people's mental state by altering the functioning of their central nervous system and brain. They are generally grouped into three broad categories - depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens.
02

Understanding Drug Effect - Decrease in Awareness

Depressants, such as alcohol, are used by some individuals to reduce distress and escape from problems, thus decreasing their level of awareness. They slow down brain processes which can lead to diminished alertness.
03

Understanding Drug Effect - Increase in Awareness

On the other hand, stimulants - like caffeine - are often used to increase awareness and keep people alert. They can perk up the mind or body by enhancing the neurotransmission.
04

Understanding Drug Effect - Altered State of Awareness

Lastly, hallucinogens (such as LSD) don't necessarily increase or decrease awareness but change the nature of reality perception. Users might be highly aware but in an altered or hallucinatory state.

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