“BIOLOGICAL MODEL OF ADDICTION"

Introduction

The results of excessive drinking are well known.
What makes the individuals who constantly drink too much ignore them is to a great extent a mystery.

In “Invitation to Psychology” the two co-authors C. Wade and C. Tavris (1999) (Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers) discuss the two dominant approaches to understanding addiction which they refer to as “Biological Model” and “Learning Model” respectively.
They also attempt to integrate the contributions of both “models”.

Here in Alcohol II are listed the key points of the “Biological Model of Addiction” (as stated by Wade and Tavris).

[Note: It is for you to decide how ambiguous (if at all) they are!!!!]

Biological Model of Addiction (key points)

A. Genetic Involvement

1) It is possible that several genes in combination affect:
a) The response to alcohol (including the metabolism of alcohol by the liver)
b) The compulsive use of alcohol
c) The progression of alcohol-related diseases (including cirrhosis)

2) It is possible that genes contribute to temperament or traits that predispose some people to become alcoholics (alcohol dependent).

3) It is also possible that:
a) “…genes have little to do with alcoholism…” and
b) “…alcoholism results, basically from alcohol!”

B) Alcohol Involvement

1) Heavy drinking:
a) Alters brain function
b) Reduces the level of pain-killing endorphins
c) Produces nerve damage
d) Shrinks the cerebral cortex
e) Damages the liver

2) “In the view of some researchers, these changes then “create”:
a) “… biological dependence ..”
b) “... inability to metabolize alcohol..”
c) “…psychological problems …”

I WONDER IF ‘ANY OF THE ABOVE’ HAS CAUSED YOU TO STOP*, PAUSE AND THINK (IF BUT FOR A BRIEF MOMENT)!!!!!!!!