Approaches to Addiction

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the nature of addiction. It specifically explores the biological and behavioral perspectives of addiction. The paper first discusses addiction in terms of drug abuse and alcoholism. It then discusses possible treatments available for addicts and the use of skill training and coping strategies for recovering from addiction successfully.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Addiction
Biological and Behavioral Approaches
Addiction and Alcoholism
Treatment
Skills Training as Addiction Treatment
Coping Strategies
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Addiction is a problem which may be expressed across a rainbow of substances; however the damage done is universal. The behavioral perspective of addiction states that the actions of the addict are their own choice, and that their behaviors which are consciously chosen and ultimately made to be habits are their own fault. The biological perspective states that some individuals are predisposed to addiction, and cannot help it, thereby making them victims. No one perspective is correct, but rather a comprehensive and involving combination of the two. While alcoholism or substance abuse may run in an addict's family, the act and behavior of using is something consciously chosen. In order to properly treat and prevent addiction, both the behavioral and biological perspectives must be fully explored."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Chaney, Edmund F.; O'Leary, Michael R.; Marlatt, Alan G. "" Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 46.5, pp. 1092-1104.
• Chung, Tammy; Langenbucher, James; Labouvie, Erich. "" Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 69.1, pp. 92-100.
• Gordis, Enoch. "" Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology: Special issue: The Decade of Behavior: Psychopharmacology and substance abuse research. 8.3, pp. 264-270.
• Bronson, Gordon W. "Blurring the Behavioral-Biological Distinction: A Commentary." Child Development. 58.6, pp. 1474-1477.
• Huttner, Jonathan. "Drug Addiction and Alcoholism: Willpower or a Disease of the Brain?" Addiction Recovery Basics. Retrieved on 3 March 2008, from:

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