Introduction
As long as humans have existed, so have addictions. Throughout history, people have become dependent on substances such as coffee, tobacco, and alcohol. In modern times, mind-altering drugs such as heroin, crystal meth, and crack cocaine create extreme addictions and suffering in families, communities, and the world. Meanwhile, new and non-traditional dependencies on sex, technology, and shopping are emerging as recognized addictions.
Similarly, prevention and treatments are also evolving. Psychologists now explore addictions from multiple perspectives, considering physical, mental, and emotional effects of addictive substances and behaviors.
In this week, you will explain social and personal perceptions of addictions, and you will examine several models of addiction.
Readings
- Walters, S. T., &Rotgers, F. (2013)Treating substance abuse: Theory and technique (3rd ed.). New York, NY: The Guilford Press.
- Chapter 1, “Theories of Motivation and Addictive Behavior”
- Chapter 5, “Cognitive-Behavioral Theories of Substance Abuse”
- Chapter 7, “Theory of 12-Step-Oriented Treatment”
- Chapter 11, “Neurobiological Bases of Addiction Treatment”
- Dodes, L. M. (2009). Addiction as a psychological symptom. Psychodynamic Practice, 15(4), 381–393.
- Gunzerath, L., Hewitt, B. G., Li, T., & Warren, K. R. (2011). Alcohol research: Past, present, and future. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1216(1), 1–23.
Week 1 Discussion
Is Addiction a Moral Defect?
For thousands of years, human beings have experienced a variety of addictions; however, over the last few centuries, the assumed causes of an individual’s addiction have changed. In earlier centuries, “inebriates” were considered to have a moral defect or character flaw—the concept of addiction did not exist. Then, in the 18th century, the disease model emerged based on the belief that drugs themselves created addiction. Recent scientific research results support the disease model, with evidence that addictions have biological as well as psychological roots.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Consider how addiction is viewed in your culture.
- Judge whether you believe an addiction is a moral defect.
- Review the articles “Alcohol Research: Past, Present, and Future” and “Addiction as a Psychological Symptom” in this week’s Learning Resources, and reflect on whether or not these articles support your belief.
- Analyze the models of addiction you explored this week, and select the one that most supports your belief.
Post by Day 4 a description of how addiction is socially perceived in your culture. Then, explain whether you think addicts have a moral and/or character defect. Provide an informed argument using the model that most supports your belief.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.
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Psychology: Perceptions towards Addiction in My Culture
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The Perceptions towards Addiction in My Culture
Although there have been great developments in research towards the problem of addictions and the possible clinical and psychological therapies, there remain unique perceptions towards the problem in many cultures (Gunzerath, Hewitt, Li, & Warren, 2011). In my culture, many people still believe that the addicts lack self-control and that their inability to exercise choice makes addicts vulnerable to drug abuse. People believe that being a drug addict is a matter of exercise of personal free will, since they belief that addiction occurs when an individual completely surrenders his/her free will and thus giving up his choices. This is why most drug addicts in my culture face stigmatization, because of the believe that the problem is rather a personal choice. However, the developments in the fields of psychology and medicine have seen the developments of various models of addictions. The knowledge gained through the course materials and class has changed my view regarding th
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