Behavior Change

Paper Summary:

This paper provides the basic model for understanding addiction and lists the five stages of change. It begins with a discussion on the Red Bull energy drink and then launches into a discussion on what does or does not qualify as an unhealthy and/or addictive substance. Next, the paper discusses withdrawal from addictive substances and looks at post acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) symptoms, stabilization techniques, and managing PAWS. Additionally, the paper discusses relapse and the numerous symptoms that often lead to relapse. The paper concludes with the reminder that recovery, although it comes with change, takes time and may be inconvenient, is an investment for life. A vast amount of research is appended to the paper.

Outline:
Red Bull Conflict and Controversy
Addiction
Stages of Change
Withdrawal
Symptoms of PAW
Stabilization
Managing PAWS

From the Paper:

"During 2003, individuals consumed 213 million cans of Red Bull, Britain's best-selling energy drink. Claims regarding Red Bull, dubbed the "clubbers' drink", contributed to this highly caffeinated, fizzy beverage earning the title of "the Porsche of soft drinks". As it is frequently mixed with vodka, some consumers purport that "Red Bull 'gives you wings"". Several deaths have also, however, have been linked Red Bull. A number of experts have criticized the beverage's high levels stimulants which include caffeine. Due to health concerns over Red Bull, Europe's highest court upheld a French ban on the energy drink during 2004. (Nordqvist)"

Sample of Sources Used:

• Begley, Sharon. "How It All Starts Inside Your Brain: Science: New research on how cocaine, heroin, alcohol and amphetamines target neuronal circuits is revealing the biological basis of addiction, tolerance, withdrawal and relapse." Newsweek, February 12, 2001. 8 July 2008 <http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-71120292.html?>.
• The Columbia World of Quotations. (1996). New York: Columbia University Press. 8 July 2008 < http://www.bartleby.com/66/28/28828.html>.Crews, Charles W. Modified from "A Look at Relapse"
• Nordqvist, Christian. "French ban on Red Bull (drink) upheld by European Court", 08 Feb 2004. Medical News Today. 8 July 2008 <http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5753.php>.
• Shaffer, Howard J. Ph.D., C.A.S. "What is Addiction?: A Perspective." Harvard Medical School Division on Addictions. July 03, 2007, last update. 8 July 2008 <http://www.divisiononaddictions.org/html/whatisaddiction.htm>.
• Shepherd, Ken. Business & Media Institute, 23, Nov. 2005. "A Load of Red Bull - New York Times hits energy drink makers as profiting from 'addiction.'" 8 July 2008<http://www.businessandmedia.org/news/2005/news20051123b.asp>.

More papers on Behavior Change:

• Cause and Effect Essay # 147941 : "Behavior Change Theory and Dieting"
• Essay # 100026 : "Personal Health Behavior Change"
• Analytical Essay # 61876 : "Cognitive Behavioral Change"

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