SOCY 1190 - Chemical Dependency: Choosing a Topic

The first step in any research assignment is to choose a topic. It is necessary to have a well-defined topic to guide you as you work through the research process. Keep in mind that students are generally more motivated to complete research assignments when the topic is of some interest or importance to them, so choose something that you want to learn more about.

Begin by gathering some background information about your topic from sources like your course textbook or subject encyclopedias (these can also be great sources for ideas if you have not yet selected a topic). Get a general idea of what the topic includes and generate a list of terms or “keywords” that are associated with your topic.

Consider the length and scope of the assignment when selecting a topic. Make sure that you will be able to completely address your topic/research question in the space and/or time that the assignment allows. Also keep in mind that you may need to expand or narrow your topic to meet this aim.

In addition to your course textbook, the web resources listed below may be a helpful starting point for your research. They provide basic background information on commonly abused drugs that you may choose to research. Use what you find in these introductory sources (ideas, keyword terms, etc.) to further explore the topic in more scholarly or academic sources, such as books and journals.