NCJ Number
193003
Journal
Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: 2001 Pages: 7-22
Date Published
2001
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper presented a “ research based model” for the causes and treatment of chemical dependence as well as its integration into the treatment process.
Abstract
Through recent research it has been discovered that neurobiology and molecular genetics play a role in chemical dependence. It was found that in both humans and animals chemical dependence involved “dysregulation” of dopamine in the pleasure center of the brain. Many recovering addicts stated that they had a special connection with drugs, others stated that they could take or leave the drugs alone, but after several drug exposures they could no longer stop. This concept of impaired control over drug use represents the defining characteristic of chemical dependence. The study also found that addicts who became dependent early in life with little or no drug exposure were genetically predisposed to the disease. It was also found that working with individuals that suffered from this problem, a holistic treatment approach which interrogated various methods and approaches was crucial, instead of any single type of therapy i.e. drug therapy. The study concluded that along with combining different approaches to drug treatment it would be more beneficial over the long-term rather than just focusing on short-term goals in dealing with drug addiction. 1 figure, 2 tables, and references