Psychological Theories Of Addiction Summary

How ΔFosB Contributes to Addiction by Regulating The Expression of Specific Target Genes In Brain Reward Pathways.

Introduction

Neuroscience is vital in helping to understanding the importance of diseases among the brain, specifically drug addiction and how it is initiated. Addiction, also known as substance dependence [1], is a chronically relapsing disorder that is characterized by three major elements: (1) compulsion to seek and take a drug, (2) loss of control in limiting intake, and (3) emergence of a negative emotional state (e.g., dysphoria anxiety, irritability) when access to the drug is prevented (defined here as dependence) [19].

Neuroscience correlates the relationship between brain function and behavior, making it particularly

A majority of the theories surrounding drug tolerance and dependence emphasize the physiological outcome, or repeated pharmacological stimulation. Theories of addiction can be thought of as moral theories, disease theories, learning and behavioral theories, or sociocultural theories. From a moralist standpoint of addiction the moral results of weakness are associated with character traits such as: pride, resentment, or laziness. Addiction is a symptom of an underling problem; therefore, individuals can not simple recover through the use of willpower and discipline. One must address the underlying issue or else relapse could occur. Next, the disease theory states, an individuals addiction is causes by a physiological deficit which makes an individual unable to tolerate the drug. For example, certain individuals are more susceptible to cocaine than others, depending on the individual’s bodies responsiveness to the drug. One may be more easily addicted if their body produces a more reinforcing or rewarding response when a particular drug is taken. In addition, the learning and behavioral theory suggest addiction is learned both through observation and vicarious reinforcement of direct experience. In other words, individuals learn through observation that addictive behaviors can be used to escape from pain, cope with stress, or even deal with depression. Those who find relied on a pleasurable behavior are more likely to engage in that behavior more often. Lastly, the sociocultural theories expands upon the learning theory. Initiation of addictive behaviors are supported by influences form ones surrounding environment, such as social circles (peer pressure), or