Why do some individuals develop addictions while others do not? ✓ Solved

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Why do some individuals develop addictions while others do not? Provide three answers, each based on a different theory of addiction. Be sure to reference factors that contribute to addictions.

There are several reasons why individuals develop addictions while others do not. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, studies show through neuroscience that alcohol changes the brain and how those changes influence certain behaviors (Staff, 2009). Our reading identifies Models of Addictions as Moral, Psychological, Sociocultural, Medical, and Biopsychosocial. The Moral model views alcoholism as a moral weakness (Miller, 2015). Morals, especially when thinking spiritually/religiously, can play a big part in why some individuals develop an addiction and others do not. If a person is spiritual or their religious practice considers drinking or the use of any drug as a sin, they will likely refrain from behaviors that conflict with their moral beliefs.

On the other hand, an individual who may or may not be spiritual might not perceive any issues with consuming alcohol or drugs, which could lead to addiction due to the chemical imbalances that drugs and alcohol can cause (Staff, 2009). For instance, as my relationship with God grew and I began learning God's Word, I stopped drinking and felt morally convicted whenever I attempted to engage in my previous behaviors. The Sociocultural Model emphasizes social forces that contribute to alcoholism, including family structure, genetics, peer pressure, culture, availability, and crisis times (Miller, 2015). These stressors can lead to addiction depending on the individual. For example, someone who grew up in an unstable home with a family history of alcoholism is more likely to develop a drinking problem compared to someone from a more stable environment.

The more a person drinks, the more their tolerance increases (Staff, 2009), leading to a need for greater consumption of alcohol to achieve the same level of intoxication over time. Two individuals from the same ethnic background may react differently to similar challenges; one with a history of abuse may turn to alcohol, while the other, with fewer negative experiences, will likely not develop an addiction due to more positive experiences in their life. Altering a person’s environment can change outcomes in the sociocultural model. The Biopsychosocial Model examines the biological aspects influencing psychological conditions, which in turn affect social interactions (Miller, 2015). For example, an individual with mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder, might use alcohol to cope with auditory hallucinations. Addressing the mental health condition through medication could eliminate the need for alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Which theory resonates the most for you and why? Personally, the Sociocultural Model resonates with me because of how minor changes in one's environment or circumstances can significantly affect outcomes. I wonder why individuals with similar backgrounds respond differently to the same situations; some may become more resilient and strive for improvement, while others accept their circumstances as their reality.

Paper For Above Instructions

Addiction is a complex issue that affects many individuals in different ways. Understanding why some people develop addictions while others do not requires examining various theoretical approaches. Here, we will explore three different addiction theories: the Moral Model, the Sociocultural Model, and the Biopsychosocial Model. Each of these models highlights distinct factors that contribute to the development of addiction and explains why some individuals may be more susceptible than others.

Moral Model

The Moral Model attributes addiction to moral weakness or character flaws. According to this view, individuals who develop addictions are seen as lacking self-control or moral fiber (Miller, 2015). This model suggests that personal choices and moral convictions are critical in determining whether one engages in substance use excessively. For instance, individuals raised in environments where substance use is considered morally unacceptable, such as strict religious households, may be less likely to develop addictions. The beliefs instilled during upbringing shape their behavior and decision-making regarding substance use. Conversely, individuals raised in permissive environments may feel less constrained by moral considerations, potentially leading to higher rates of substance use and subsequent addiction.

Sociocultural Model

The Sociocultural Model emphasizes the role of social factors in addiction development. Factors such as family dynamics, peer influences, and cultural expectations play a significant role in determining an individual's likelihood of developing addiction. For example, a person coming from a family with a history of alcohol dependency may have an increased risk due to genetic predispositions, environmental stress, and learned behaviors from caregivers (Miller, 2015). Situational factors such as peer pressure and cultural acceptance of drug use can also significantly influence whether someone engages in substance use. Additionally, crises or significant stressors, such as unemployment or trauma, can enhance the risk of addiction by pushing individuals toward maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as substance use.

Biopsychosocial Model

The Biopsychosocial Model posits that addiction is the result of a complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors (Miller, 2015). This model suggests that everyone possesses a unique biochemical makeup that influences their susceptibility to addiction. For instance, neurobiological research has indicated that certain individuals may have genetic variations that make them more vulnerable to developing addiction when exposed to drugs or alcohol (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2010). Psychological factors, such as pre-existing mental health conditions, can also contribute to addiction. For example, individuals with anxiety disorders might use substances to self-medicate, leading to a cycle of reliance on drugs for coping. Finally, the social environment influences access to substances, norms related to alcohol and drug use, and the availability of support systems crucial for recovery.

Conclusion

Understanding the reasons behind addiction development involves examining a combination of factors at the personal, social, and environmental levels. The Moral Model emphasizes personal choice, while the Sociocultural Model highlights the significant impact of social influences and context on substance use behavior. The Biopsychosocial Model provides a more integrated perspective by considering how biological predispositions, psychological conditions, and social factors interact to lead to addiction. Recognizing these diverse influences can aid in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to individual circumstances.

References

  • Miller, W. R. (2015). Studies on addiction theories. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment.

  • Staff, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2009). Neuroscience of addiction. Retrieved from https://www.hhs.gov.

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2010). Drugs, brains, and behavior: The science of addiction. Bethesda, MD.

  • Perkinson, R. T. (2012). Chemical Dependence Counseling: A Practical Guide. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

  • Santrock, J. W. (2010). Adolescence (13th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

  • Gilpin, N. W., & Koob, G. F. (2008). Neurobiology of alcohol dependence. Alcohol Research & Health, 31(3), 185.

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