Lesson 11 - Substance Related Disorders

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts related to alcohol and nicotine addiction, its symptoms, stages, and prevention strategies, as discussed in the abnormal psychology lecture notes.

What is alcohol Addiction?

A chronic relapsing disorder associated with compulsive alcohol drinking and loss of control over intake.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

A condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences.

What are the causes of Alcohol Addiction?

1. Social environment

2. Stress

3. Mental health problems

4. Sexual problems

5. Family disputes

6. Chronic diseases

7. Family History

8. Age

9. Ethnicity

10. Gender (Men are more addicted)

At what age do people become addicted to alcohol?

People under the age of 25 and over the age of 50 are most addicted

What are the two alcohol users fall?

Problem Drinkers

Social Drinkers

What is the Cycle of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction is a long-term condition where a person feels a strong need to drink alcohol, struggles to control how much they drink, and feels emotionally low when they can’t drink. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is when someone keeps drinking even though it causes problems in their life, such as at work, in relationships, or with their health. AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe. Severe cases are often called alcohol addiction, alcohol dependence, or alcoholism.

How does addiction develop in the brain?

Alcohol affects the brain by creating pleasurable feelings and reducing negative emotions, which can make people want to drink repeatedly despite potential risks. While drinking may temporarily relieve stress, research shows that it can actually make negative emotions worse over time, leading to a cycle of alcohol use. Long-term drinking can change the brain’s structure and function, making it harder to control alcohol consumption. These brain changes can persist even after a person stops drinking and may increase the risk of relapse.

What are the three stages of addiction?

The three stages of addiction are incentive salience, negative emotional states, and executive function.

How do the stages of addiction connect and influence each other?

Each stage feeds into and reinforces the others, creating a repeating cycle that makes addiction difficult to break.

How quickly can a person cycle through the stages of addiction?

A person may go through the three-stage cycle over weeks or months, or even multiple times in a single day.

What role does the basal ganglia play in addiction?

The basal ganglia is involved in incentive salience, meaning it plays a role in the motivation and reward system that drives addictive behaviors.

How does the extended amygdala contribute to addiction?

The extended amygdala is associated with negative emotional states, which can increase cravings and reinforce substance use to relieve distress.

What is the function of the prefrontal cortex in the cycle of addiction?

The prefrontal cortex is linked to executive function, which includes decision-making, self-control, and regulating behavior. In addiction, its function is impaired, making it harder to resist cravings.

What are withdrawal Symptoms?

Physical and emotional symptoms experienced when an individual stops drinking alcohol.

What is Binge Drinking?

Consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period, usually leading to intoxication.

What is Craving?

A strong desire or urge to use alcohol.

What is Negative Emotional States?

Emotional distress experienced during alcohol withdrawal or when alcohol is unavailable.

Who are Social Drinkers?

Individuals who consume alcohol for social reasons rather than addiction.

Who are Problem Drinkers?

Individuals who are addicted to alcohol due to various personal and social issues.

What are the Stages of Alcoholism?

The progression of alcoholism over four stages:

• experimental

• regular consumption

• symptomatic

• dependence

What are the physical symptoms of Alcohol Addiction?

Changes in the body's chemical makeup, including brain damage and susceptibility to diseases.

What are the mental symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Effects like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders related to alcohol use.

What are the criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder?

It needs to be a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

What is Tolerance?

The need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effect.

What is Relapse?

Returning to alcohol use after a period of abstinence.

What is Nicotine Addiction?

Addiction to nicotine, considered a psychoactive drug affecting both physical and mental health.

What is Nicotine Withdrawal Syndrome?

Symptoms experienced when stopping nicotine use, including anxiety, poor concentration, and cravings.

What is the prevention of Alcohol Addiction?

Initiatives aimed at reducing alcohol addiction through policies like raising the age of purchase.

What is Gambling Disorder?

A behavioral addiction manifesting as problematic gambling behavior leading to significant distress.