TM

abnormal.lecture14.2025

Adult Psychopathology

  • Introduction by Dr. Simon B. Sherry, Professor at Dalhousie University, Psychologist at CRUX Psychology.

Test Information

  • Test 2 Overview:

    • Contains 50 questions.

    • Content derived from specific chapters and lectures as outlined in the course.

Chapter 12: Substance Use and Impulse Control

  • Key Topics Covered:

    • Causes of substance use disorders.

    • Treatment methods for substance-related disorders.

Causes of Substance Abuse

  • Development of Substance Abuse:

    • Can occur unintentionally from environmental exposure.

    • Occurs when substances are used intentionally for psychoactive effects despite known risks.

Biological Influences

  • Genetic Vulnerability:

    • Certain genes linked to alcohol dependence (e.g., gene on chromosome 4).

    • Variations in alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) enzyme.

    • The DRD2 gene associated with increased risk for alcoholism.

  • Biochemical Factors:

    • Drug misuse may have biological underpinnings.

    • Neurotransmitter (NT) functioning and dopamine's role in pleasure pathways.

    • Reward centers in the brain activate in response to drugs, leading to pleasure.

Psychological Dimensions

  • Positive and Negative Reinforcement:

    • Positive reinforcement: Substance use leads to pleasurable experiences, increasing use over time.

    • Negative reinforcement: Drugs provide escape from physical pain or emotional distress, enhancing dependency.

Cognitive-Behavioral Views

  • Self-Medication Hypothesis:

    • Individuals may increase drug use when experiencing stress or tension.

    • Expectancy effects influence drug use behavior.

Social and Cultural Factors

  • Influence of Environment:

    • Increased likelihood of substance use in stressful socioeconomic conditions.

    • Cultural acceptance of substance use may contribute to higher rates of substance abuse.

Treatment Approaches

  • Goals of Treatment:

    • Abstinence: Complete cessation of substance use.

    • Harm Reduction: Minimizing harm associated with substance use, e.g., needle exchange programs.

Methods of Treatment

  • Biological Treatments:

    • Agonist Substitution: Medications like methadone for opioid dependence.

    • Antagonist Treatments: Drugs like naltrexone block effects of addictive substances.

    • Detoxification: Supervised withdrawal processes, either gradual or medically assisted.

  • Psychosocial Treatments:

    • Inpatient rehabilitation programs for initial withdrawal.

    • Alcoholics Anonymous and similar groups focusing on community and support.

    • Cognitive-behavioral therapies to help identify triggers and promote coping strategies.

Prevention Strategies

  • Community Approaches:

    • Ongoing prevention initiatives focused on multiple factors to provide a cohesive message against substance abuse.

    • Includes peer-pressure resistance and parental education.

Gambling Disorder

  • Prevalence and Impact:

    • Affects approximately 2% of Americans, linked to various negative outcomes like financial issues.

    • Similar traits are observed as in substance use disorders (e.g., tolerance, withdrawal).

Impulse-Control Disorders

  • Types of Disorders:

    • Intermittent Explosive Disorder: Characterized by aggressive outbursts.

    • Kleptomania: Compulsion to steal without need or motive.

    • Pyromania: Compulsion to set fires.

  • Treatment Options:

    • Cognitive-behavioral strategies to modify behavior.