Theoretical Models of Addiction

Flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary related to theoretical models of addiction, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Biological Factors

Factors related to genetics and physiology that influence addiction.

Psychological Factors

Influences that involve cognitive, learning, and emotional aspects affecting substance use.

Sociocultural Factors

Social and cultural influences that impact addiction behaviors and perceptions.

Comorbidity

The occurrence of more than one disorder in the same individual, particularly in substance use disorders.

Positive Reinforcement

The process by which the use of a drug leads to pleasurable effects, reinforcing the behavior.

Impulsivity

A tendency to act without forethought or consideration of consequences, often associated with substance abuse.

Twin Studies

Research methods used to separate the effects of genetic and environmental factors on behaviors, including addiction.

Developmental Context

Understanding substance use and abuse patterns based on age-related stages of development.

Age of Initiation

The age at which an individual first uses a substance; a strong predictor of later substance use disorders.

Disinhibition

A trait that increases the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, including early substance use.

Gateway Model

A theoretical framework suggesting that early use of less harmful substances leads to subsequent use of more dangerous drugs.

Social Learning Theory

The theory that behavior is learned from observing others, including drug use behaviors.

Expectancy Theory

The beliefs and anticipations about the outcomes of substance use, which can influence behavior.

Alcohol Myopia

A cognitive state in which alcohol consumption leads to shortsightedness in judgment and behavior.

Externalizing Psychopathology

Behavioral disorders characterized by outward-directed behaviors, such as aggression and rule-breaking, often predictive of substance use.

Internalizing Psychopathology

Mental health issues that involve inwardly directed feelings, such as anxiety or depression, which may impact substance use.

Gene-Environment Interaction (GEI)

The interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental factors in the development of addiction.