While watching this video I noticed how closely Dr. Volkow’s thoughts and ideas of addiction align with the majority of society. Dr. Volkow did not mention that she follows one model of addiction but her statements make it clear that she follows and believes in the disease model of addiction. In the first five minutes of the video she states that addiction is a “disease of the brain” and that changes in the brain lead to a loss of control when it comes to the abused substance. Dr. Volkow then goes on to explain what happens to the brain and the changes that the brain goes through when an individual has an addiction. By the time addiction reaches its peak, Dr. Volkow states that the brain gives off a signal similar to that of starving when craving …show more content…
Volkow. However, even though I agree with the science behind the model I do not agree that addiction is caused by genetics alone. I believe in a more eclectic model, the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. I disagreed with Dr. Volkow’s take on addiction when she didn’t incorporate more than just genetic components when talking about what causes addiction. How does society as a whole know that addiction has a strong genetic component? When I asked that question most people simply respond because “addiction runs in families”. Yes, that is true but we cannot link that soley back to an individual’s biological makeup. Families often share more than just biology. They share the same social circles, culture, attitudes and beliefs. This leads me to the question is it the genetics that sparked the addiction or the way the individual was socialized? Both of these answers could be correct, that is why there are many other systems to consider when talking about addiction than just …show more content…
The disease model of addiction takes power away from an individual who is struggling with a substance use disorder. Instead of the individual taking responsibility for their own actions and their own recovery they can place blame or responsibility on the disease. I have heard many people say that they “can’t help that they have a problem” and “once an addict always an addict” and honestly those words are sickening to me. I believe that people are responsible for their own actions and reactions. Therefore, to a certain extent, individuals have control over themselves. However, I believe addiction stems from numerous factors, not just responsibility and
For starters, Hari discusses how society over the years has made misconceptions about addiction, because of this addicts have been wrongfully treated, and blame was placed incorrectly. The author goes on to explain two different stories; both being well known about the prescription drug crisis. One being the fact that even the most powerful drugs such as diamorphine hasn’t caused addiction (Hari). In fact, that didn’t make sense to Hari on how powerful drugs were used in extreme medical cases and through prolonged use none became addicted. This is one of the misconceptions about addiction.
After all the time spent suffering from an addiction, it becomes increasing important for addiction victims to select a rehab center that makes sense when they are ready for help. Most rehab centers will put forth claims of how good its treatment programs are compared to other places. Without much else to compare to, reputation becomes a key factor for consideration. With that in mind, it 's worth us noting that many a West Texas Rehab has a solid reputation for excellent treatment and care. (-- removed HTML --) Is a West Texas Rehab Really a Viable Treatment Solution?
In the excerpt “Rat Park” from Opening Skinner’s Box by Laruen Slater, demonstrates how addictions are a choice by conducting an experiment involving rats and drug addictions. Addictions are choices made by an individual. An addiction is a condition that results when an individual ingests a substance (e.g., alcohol, cocaine, nicotine) or engages in an activity (e.g., gambling, sex, shopping, eating) that can be pleasurable, but the continued use/act of which becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, such as work, relationships, or health. Addicts may not be aware that their behavior is out of control and causing problems for themselves and others. The outcome of this experiment explains how related rats are to human beings.
Both internal and external conflict can take an emotional toll on a patient who is dealing with the psychological and physiological effects of addiction. Also, these patients lose their able to function normally, and some healthcare personnel perceive their behaviors as deliberately preformed causing an excessive amount of stigma. Addiction leaves patients having to manage the pain and suffering of not being in control of their own bodies without much guidance of healthcare personnel. However, patients would not have to persevere through addition consequences of addiction if professionals – especially pharmacists – had enhanced education of addiction which would possibly alleviate
Opponents claim that it is up to them and that they could change if they want to. However, that is not always true. “CAMH (Care for addiction
To prevent this “disease” we must prevent the first drink. Society must draw the line between individual responsibility and a mental disorder. At the end of the day, addiction comes down to the choices of that
Addiction is a disorder of the brain where a person feels he has to take the drug despite its destructive effects (Volkow, Koob and McLellan). Dependence is a state normally associated when an
The World Wide Problems of Addiction: Genetics vs. Environmental Factors or Both Chasen L. Edge Georgia Military College PSYC 200 – Introduction to Psychology The World Wide Problems of Addiction: Genetics vs. Environmental Factors or Both Why do we need to know the exact cause of addictions? Are they genetically related? Are they environmentally related or a combination of both? The answers to the questions would certainly contribute in seeking help and controlling the addiction.
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart portrays addiction as a destructive force that can tear families apart and lead to self-destruction. Addiction alters brain chemistry and decision-making processes, leading to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Social and cultural factors such as peer pressure, family history, and childhood trauma contribute to addiction, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic issues. Effective treatment for addiction involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the biological, psychological, and social aspects of the disorder. By addressing these factors and providing support for individuals struggling with addiction, we can work towards a future where addiction is not a barrier to living a fulfilling and healthy life.
Many believe addiction is related to “personal weakness, or character” ("Physical and Psychological Aspects of Addiction | Addiction Treatment Therapy," 2015). Many believe it’s due to reckless lifestyle, and behavior, or just plain lack of discipline. Well, this is not true. Addiction is a disease of the mind and body. Our brain function is “controlled” by our chemical and electrical impulses, which controls our “emotions”, memory, anxiety, “impulse control”, love, etc.
It is a universally held beleif that addiction ruins lives. Affecting the young and old, male and female, and people from different ethnicities, cultures, and social brackets, addiction is widely regarded as a societal illness with no easy solution. A particularily damaging assumption is that a drug or sex addict, for instance, is the root cause of their own suffering. This can potentially lead to a chain reaction where the guilt placed upon a human being strengthens the desire to escape from said guilt. This is particularily damaging to a teenager, to whom an external stimuli is no longer required after a few years of guilt inflicted by their parents.
Retrospectively, certain aspects of the biopsychosocial model are evident. Out of the four of my children who experimented with drugs and alcohol only one became addicted. It makes sense that he has some sort of biological predisposition to addiction that the others do not have. Parental divorce and remarriage preceded an early withdrawal from the family unit which brought about psychological issues such as loneliness, depression, and anxiety. And finally, a social circle of alcohol and drug abusing companions allowed him easy access to his drug of choice.
Literature Review Substance Use Disorder Defined According to the American Psychological Association, the definitional boundaries of what addiction is has changed multiple times over the years. Addiction was relabeled dependence in 1964 by the World Health Organization, as it thought that the word addiction closely linked to opiate use. A few years ago, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was released and combined the diagnostic categories for substance abuse and substance dependence (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). These diagnoses have replaced the term with substance use disorders.
Drug abuse is caused by psychological, genetic as well as environmental factors and can have significant damaging effects on health. Psychological factors are associated with the development of drug abuse. Drug abuse often occurs
Addiction is the reliance on a routine. There are many addictive stages. Addiction, as it comes along, becomes a way of life. The persistent use of the substance causes to the user serious physical or psychological problems and dysfunctions in major areas of his or her life. The drug user continues to use substances and the compulsive behavior despite the harmful consequences, and tries to systematically avoid responsibility and reality, while he or she tends to isolate himself/herself from others because of guilt and pain (Angres, & Bettinardi-Angres, 2008).