Theories of Drug Use and Abuse

A set of flashcards covering physiological, genetic, environmental, and structural theories of drug use and abuse based on lecture materials.

What defines a theory in the context of drug use?

An explanation for phenomena that is flexible across various circumstances, testable, and measured with key concepts/variables.

What is the core contention of Nature "Theories" (Weil 1972)?

The desire to use psychoactive substances is an innate and universal human drive, analogous to hunger or the sex drive.

Why are Nature "Theories" not considered true scientific theories?

They cannot be falsified and are not amenable to conventional empirical testing.

What do Genetic/Biological Theories suggest about substance use?

Individuals most likely to use or become addicted are characterized by genetically inherited predispositions.

What is the "Flushing Response" in Genetic/Biological theories?

An example of a biological factor that can influence substance use or abuse patterns.

According to Sensitization Theory, how do drugs affect brain systems?

Drugs alter brain organization through an adaptive process, rendering systems involved in incentive, motivation, and reward hypersensitive or "sensitized."

In Sensitization Theory, what is the difference between drug "liking" and drug "wanting"?

Drug "liking" refers to the perceived pleasurable or euphoric effects, while drug "wanting" refers to the "incentive value" or how much the individual desires the drug.

What is a major limitation of Genetic / Biological Theories?

They cannot explain why the vast majority of drinkers have no serious problems or why many "genetically susceptible" individuals do not become alcoholics.

How does the Disease Model characterize addiction?

As an incurable, degenerative, and often fatal disease that is not necessarily pathological but results in inevitable addiction for some people.

How do the Moral Model and Disease Model differ regarding individual fault?

The Moral Model views addiction as all the fault of the individual, while the Disease Model views it as zero fault of the individual.

What are the three common assumptions of the Disease Model that research finds weak or unsupported?

1. Problem drinkers exhibit a single distinct pattern of deterioration. 2. Craving is irresistible and drinking is uncontrollable once begun. 3. Medical expertise is required to understand or relieve the condition.

Why is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) considered an effective treatment resource despite criticisms of the Disease Model?

Its success is attributed to accessible support groups, cathartic effects, mentorship, and accountability.

What is the central premise of Problem Behavior Theory (Jessor & Jessor 1977)?

Substance use is one of several problem behaviors symptomatic of a broader underlying condition characterized by risk-taking and unconventionality.

What personality traits are associated with the condition described in Problem Behavior Theory?

A desire for independence, tolerance of deviance, rebellion, pleasure-seeking, and susceptibility to peer influence.

What is the concept of "Tabula Rasa" in Social Learning Theory?

The idea that individuals are "blank slates" and drug use is a result of learned experiences and influence from primary groups.

How does Social Learning Theory differ from Classical Learning Theory (Differential Association)?

It incorporates operant conditioning (Skinner 1953), addressing how drug use is reinforced both socially and physiologically (non-socially).

What is the strongest and most consistent finding in research on adolescent substance use?

The relationship between an individual's drug use and use by one's peers.

What distinguishes Subcultural Learning Theories from general learning theories?

They focus on unique learning patterns within subcultures where messages about drug use are much more favorable than in conventional society.

What do Conflict Theories of Law examine regarding drug use?

The creation, enforcement, and consequences of laws, and how they apply across social class, race, and other categories of stratification.

What is the difference between "mala in se" crimes and "mala prohibitum" crimes in Conflict Theory?

"Mala in se" (e.g., murder) are beneficial to all, while "mala prohibitum" (e.g., drug bans) are highly discretionary and may preserve the status quo for those in power.

What disparity does Conflict Theory point to regarding legal repercussions for drug use?

Middle class and affluent populations face fewer legal repercussions than lower-income populations despite comparable drug use rates.

According to conflict researchers, what contributes to racial disparities in drug incarcerations?

The ability to afford a private attorney and the specific locations where drug enforcement efforts are focused.