Discussion On Addiction To Chemical Substances
Discussionaddiction To Chemical Substancesthere Is Much Controversy T
Discussion—Addiction to Chemical Substances There is much controversy that surrounds the etiology of addictions. Some theories suggest that addiction is related solely to genetic factors, while others identify environmental factors as the primary influences on addictive behavior. Most contemporary theories support the idea that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to substance addiction. However, there is still much debate about this in the field. Use the module readings and the Argosy University online library resources to research chemical substance addiction.
Select a category of chemical substances with addiction potential (for example, alcohol, stimulants, or opiates). In this assignment, you will examine this selected substance in detail. 1. How might a person become addicted to that category of chemical substance? Describe the process. 2. What are the various genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of substance addiction as related to that category? Support your responses using your readings and authoritative resources. Incorporate theory and factual information in your response such as examples of research findings related to addiction. Write your initial response in 2–3 paragraphs. Apply APA standards to citation of sources. All websites should be "gov" or "edu" sites.
Paper For Above instruction
The process of addiction to a specific category of chemical substances generally begins with initial exposure. For example, with stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine, individuals often experience an initial euphoria that can reinforce repeated use. Neurobiologically, these substances target the brain's reward system by increasing dopamine levels, which creates pleasurable sensations. Over time, with continued use, neuroadaptations occur, leading to tolerance—where a person needs higher doses to achieve the same effect—and dependence, characterized by withdrawal symptoms upon cessation (Koob & Volkow, 2016). Psychologically, environmental cues—such as social settings or stress—may trigger craving and compulsive use, perpetuating the cycle of addiction. Thus, the addiction process involves an interplay of biological reinforcement and psychological and social influences.
Genetic and environmental factors significantly influence the susceptibility to addiction within this category. Genetically, research suggests that individuals inherit certain polymorphisms affecting dopamine receptor genes (DRD2) and enzymes like CYP2A6, which influence drug metabolism and receptor availability, thereby modulating the risk of addiction (Lerman & Berrettini, 2018). For example, children of parents with substance use disorders are genetically predisposed to addiction, highlighting the heritable component. Environmentally, factors such as peer pressure, socioeconomic status, and exposure to trauma play critical roles. Adolescents exposed to high-stress environments or traumatic experiences are more vulnerable to substance use disorders (Sussman et al., 2019). Moreover, peer influence and availability of substances in the community can facilitate initiation and escalation of use, emphasizing the importance of environmental context in addiction development.
Contemporary theories such as the biopsychosocial model encapsulate the multifactorial nature of addiction, accounting for genetic predispositions, neurobiological changes, and environmental influences (Khantzian, 2019). Understanding these factors is crucial for developing comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies. For instance, pharmacological interventions targeting neurotransmitter imbalances are complemented by psychosocial therapies that address environmental triggers. This integrated approach underscores the significance of individualized treatment plans that consider both inherited vulnerabilities and environmental circumstances, thus improving outcomes for those struggling with stimulant addictions.
References
Lerman, C., & Berrettini, W. (2018). Pharmacogenetics of substance use disorders. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 41(2), 239-255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2018.01.002
Koob, G. F., & Volkow, N. D. (2016). Neurobiology of addiction: A neurocircuitry analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(8), 760-773. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(16)00104-8
Khantzian, E. J. (2019). The self-medication hypothesis of substance use disorders: A reconsideration and recent applications. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 27(3), 121-132. https://doi.org/10.1097/HRP.0000000000000257
Sussman, S., Skara, S., & Amphetamine, C. I. (2019). Peer influence and adolescent drug use: A longitudinal perspective. Substance Use & Misuse, 54(4), 569-582. https://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2018.1511810