The Etiology of Addiction Disease Model

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Addiction is like all behaviours “the business of the brain”. Addictions are compulsive physical and psychological needs from habit-forming sustenances like nicotine, alcohol, and drugs. Being occupied with or involved in such activities, leads a person who uses them again and again to become tolerant and dependent eventually experiencing withdrawal. (Molintas, 2006). Addictive drugs cause dopamine neurons to release dopamine, the pleasure hormone. The narcotics disable the neurons that would usually keep the dopamine neurons in check; becoming over stimulated. Endorphins are produced and released within the brain, creating a high and reinforcing the individual’s positive associations with the activity. Hence “the rush” (Molintas, 2006) Considering alcohol, alcoholic beverages have been a part of this nation`s past since the Pilgrims landed (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4). Early colonists had a high regard for alcoholic beverages because alcohol was believed to be a healthy substance with preventative and curative capabilities rather than as an intoxicant. (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4) Alcohol was the “centerpiece” in taverns throughout the colonies. The production and consumption of alcohol caused enough concern to precipitate several versions of the `temperance ‘movement, which was developed to encourage people to refrain from the use of distilled spirits. Their goal was the replacement of excessive drinking with more moderate and socially approved levels of drinking (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4). In the early 1800`s, clergy took the position that alcohol could corrupt both the mind and body (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4). Throughout history, humans have used drugs to achieve desired changes of experiences. Even ancient warriors “... ... middle of paper ... ...rator, can deny responsibility by claiming a lack of control caused by drugs or alcohol. It remains valid that drug and alcohol abuse are common characteristics of all forms of violence (Wallace, 2008, p. 19). Works Cited David Capuzzi, M. D. (2008). Foundations of Addictions Counselling. Boston: Pearson Education, Inc. Molintas, D. (2006, November 26). Addictions. Retrieved from Anatomy of Addictions: www.pcij.org/i-report/2006/addictions.html Stanton Peele. (1988). Major Contemporay Perspectives on Addiction and Alcoholism. New York, NY: Macmillian, Inc. UnKnown. (2011, January 7). Is Alcoholism a Disease? Retrieved January 7, 2011, from Alcohol and Drug Guide.com: www.alcohol-and-drug-guide.com/alcoholism-disease-model.html Wallace, H. (2008). Family Violence Legal, Medical, and Social Perspectives - Fifth Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

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