Addiction's Effects on Families and Communities

Addiction And Family Addiction
United States (US) has the highest rate of substance use among all developed countries (Johnson & Vaderhoef, 2016). Fifty percent of individuals
living in the US has the comorbid mental illness (Johnson & Vaderhoef, 2016). Approximately two million people have admitted annually to inpatient
treatment centers in the United States (Johnson & Vanderhoef, 2016).
Addiction includes much more than the neurobiology of the brain. Genetic factors have found in about half the patients with addiction (American
Society of Addiction Medicine [ASAM], 2011). Factors include biological deficit, repeated drug use, cognitive and affective distortions that impairs
perceptions, problems with interpersonal relationships, challenged to coping skills, and co–occurring of other psychiatric disorders (ASAM, 2011).
Addiction characterized by the inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavior control, craving, diminished recognition of significant
problems, and dysfunctional emotional response (ASAM, 2011). Cognitive changes also occur that includes preoccupation with substance and blaming
problems on other factors in life rather due to addiction (ASAM, 2011). Working with outpatient and adult and crisis stabilization units in last two
semesters has made me realize that Addiction is more of a family illness than the individual disease. Each in the addiction family takes on a special
role to survive the family disease of addiction. One of the families I have followed a South Asian family
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...

The Signs Of Addiction And Addiction
Families can do different things that can help with addiction. According to Alcohol and Drug Abuse Affects Everyone in the Family (2015), families
can learn the facts about drugs and addiction so they can know what to expect. The family needs to make sure they get help for themselves other
than getting help for the addicted person, but also learn what they can do to help the addicted family member. They would maybe need to get a
family intervention and always look for a long term recovery. The family can also look for the signs ofaddiction to try and prevent addiction.
According to There's Help for you or your Loved One with Opioid Dependence (n.d.), the signs of addiction are when someone has a need for an
increased amount of drugs to relieve pain or to get high, feeling physical or mental withdrawal after they stop using a drug, unsuccessful attempts
to cut back on use of a drug, and a great deal of time spent trying to get more drugs. According to The Set up Living with Addiction (n.d.), they
believe that people dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression or other mental illnesses use drugs and alcohol to ease their suffering. They
also say when people see family members or friends using drugs they feel like they can too. Another reason is people become bored and think drugs
will help, people think drugs will relieve stress, people think if they are prescribed a drug it is ok and they will not become addicted, people get injured
and become addicted

Alcoholism Addiction And An Addiction Essay
Traditionally speaking, alcoholism is an addiction to consuming alcohol. There are some organizations and people out there that would combat that
widely accepted thought, and consider it a disease over an addiction. What is the difference between a disease and an addiction? To determine the
appropriate label, both definitions and the actions that give them that specific definition must be examined. There is a line that separates what is a
disease and what is an addiction and there are many different forms of each. Alcoholism is one that is categorized as both, but often it falls into the
category of an addiction. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, "Addiction is characterized by the inability to consistently
Abstain, Impairment in Behavioral control; Craving; or increased "hunger" for drugs or rewarding experiences, diminished recognition of significant
problems with one's behaviors and interpersonal relationships; and a dysfunctional emotional response." On the contrary the definition of a disease,
according to Oxford Dictionary, is "a disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, especially one that produces specific symptoms or
that affects a specific location and is not simply a direct result of physical injury." Both definitions can greatly relate to what alcoholism is and as to
why it is so closely related to both. Many believe that alcoholism is a disease. Something that relates to genetics and the person who has the disease

Addiction : The Problem Of Addiction Essay
You likely experience varying emotions dealing with the addict. One moment you fear the addict may die of an overdose; a moment later, you are
angry because the addict is wasting money on drugs, sleeping in late, or refusing to work. It's frustrating and painful to watch helplessly as someone
you care about falls prey to the negative and possibly catastrophic consequences of addiction.
While the addict deals with the consequences of addiction, your struggles are just as important and deserve attention. Here are ways to help you cope
with the stress of dealing with the addict:
Expand Your Knowledge of Addiction. Topics Covered in the Next Several Chapters Include:
Why and how addiction develops.
Why addicts continue to use despite the mounting problems addiction causes.
The medical, social or legal consequences of addiction.
Healthy ways for you to motivate the addict to seek treatment.
Healthy ways to take care of yourself.
The reality of addiction: the addict is in control.
Counseling
You need to be emotionally healthy to cope with the stress of dealing with the addict. Counseling with a therapist or spiritual counselor can be of
immense value. Unfortunately, society views mental health problems as a sign of weakness. The very same stigma exists fordrug addiction! Don't allow
yourself to think that way.
Counseling can help you cope with the stress of dealing with the addict.
Referral to a physician for medication can be helpful if you are struggling with

Addiction And Its Effects On Addiction
Abstract
Background
The review of literature provides an extent amount of knowledge on addiction, effects of addiction, and medication used to treat addiction. Reviewing
the literature explains the definition of addiction, whether it is a choice or compulsion, and specific medications used to treat dependence. Overall,
using substances is a choice but addictive qualities are compulsions. Research has proven that medications are widely effective in treating substance
abuse.
Purpose
The literature's purpose is to inform its reader of addiction, the risks and consequences of using substances, and ways to treat substance abuse.
Method
Using scholarly based journals, common knowledge, and experience are all methods used in producing a scientific based paper on addiction.
Results
Addiction is considered a brain disease that changes the way the brain works, thinks and reacts. Genetics is one way to determine means of addiction
through linkage and association. Some effects of drug use can cause permanent damage to the brain and cause abnormalities. Although there is no cure
for addiction doctors have came up with many different medications to treat symptoms.
Conclusion
General studies have proven the fact that substances have an adverse effect on the brain and how it functions. Studies are showing a number of links
between drugs and brain disorders. Medication aiding in the treatment of addiction has proven to have frequent positive results.
Introduction
Drug addiction is

Addiction : The Problem Of Addiction
Addiction
A crisis that many communities in Georgia are experiencing is addiction. A large substance that is currently being abuse is methamphetamine.
Methamphetamine can be smoked, snorted, injected, taken orally and dissolved in liquids. The most common use is smoking and injecting the drug
because of the immediate reaction it has on the body. It is highly addictive and has repeated patterns of binges and crashes with the individual
constantly trying to reproduce their euphoric high.
A recent news event that has really highlighted the problem of meth use in Georgia is $120,000 in methamphetamines seized during a drug bust in
Columbus. In the drug bust the meth was over 2.6 pounds and four thousand dollars, along with a hand gun. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The ASI provides basic information and clear instructions to be used in treatment planning. The ASI is used and "administered as a structured with
interview with specific questions that cover several basic areas of treatment needs, including medical, employment/ support , drug/alcohol use, legal,
family/social relationships, and psychiatric" (Stevens & Smith, 2013, P. 140). These basic areas give the different areas that may need assistance in
overcoming addiction. For example the ASI may display a lack of support in their family and friendship, indicating that they may use because they do
not have support. In the drug and alcohol portion analyzes the full scope of the individual's abuse as well as the times they have been sober and the
periods in which they have used. Another helpful use of this assessment is that "counselors can adjust questions to use terms are familiar to the client
and fit with his or her level of education and sophistication' "(Stevens & Smith, 2013, P.140). In being able to adjust the questions to the individual,
more information will be gained in how to help many different individual's overcome their addictions. Another assessment that is essential in a
community that has different levels of addiction is triage. Triage in some pretreatment services for addiction consist of primary prevention, early
interventions, and detoxification. In triage the ones that need treatment in their addiction first are those in

Drug Addiction And Behavioral Or Process Addictions
There are many different types of addiction that people become dependent on and they are devoted to it. There are 2 main categories of addiction,
which are substance–related addiction and behavioral or process addictions. There are 2 main types of addiction, which are physical is when a
person 's body is reliant on something after a while a person's body can crave it and then there 're psychological addictions which is when someone
craves something so that is changing their mood and feelings. According to Wikipedia,addiction is " a state characterized by compulsive engagement in
rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequence". When becoming addicted it is being reliant on a certain substance or an activity, physically and
mentally. When addicted you feel as if you need to have it and are unable to stop taking it. Substance abuse or misuse is when you are dependent on a
certain substance, most common substances are alcohol and drugs. When misusing substances it affects a person's physical and mental health and their
social responsibilities.
According to Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the definition of alcohol is, that alcohol is a flammable liquid whose principal ingredient is ethanol .
Studies show that teens have lower tolerance levels than adults when it comes to alcohol, and that females have lower tolerance levels than males
when it comes to alcohol. Alcohol addiction is also known as alcoholism or alcohol dependence and it is an illness. When a person suffers

Exercise Addiction
Once the symptoms of exercise addiction are clearly identified in a patient, medical and health professionals should seek appropriate treatments tailored
to find the source or route of their addiction (Lane, 2008). Additionally, these professionals must differentiate if the addiction occurs in the absence of
an eating disorder. In some cases, an addiction to exercise is typically a dissatisfaction with the individual's physical appearance. Under stress from this
displeasure, exercise is rationalized as a positive solution to combat this instead of turning to other potentially addictive behaviors (Landolfi, 2012).
The Exercise Dependence Scale and Exercise Addiction Inventory allow individuals suffering from exercise addiction to be ... Show more content on
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Quetiapine is commonly used to treat patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In the study, the patient used
Quetiapine as an add on treatment for bipolar I disorder with comorbid compulsive buying and physical exercise addiction (Weinstein & Weinstein,
2014). After 4 weeks of treatment, the patient displayed mild improvements in compulsive buying behaviors with moderate improvements of
compulsion to exercise. Eight weeks later, the Quetiapine treatment had improved these behaviors significantly. By 24 weeks the compulsive buying
and physical exercise were

Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction is a major problem for people across the world and is even more of a problem for those who struggle with a drug and or
alcohol addiction as well making them a cross addict. Gambling addictions can ruin lives by ruining relationships with friends, family or significant
others, adds on unneeded stress for the addict, as well as financial stress by not being able to pay bills or pay their way to feed their gambling addiction.
Many people do not think of gambling as an addictive disorder, they think that people can not become addicted to gambling since it is like playing
games and putting money down on these games to possibly win more money that they put in. They think that they have the choice and power to stop
gambling whenever they want, which is not the case at all for those who are addicted. This video was very informational since it was essentially like a
documentary of these people who have dealt with gambling addiction, coming out and stating what it does to them personally, their family, how it
affects everything in their life. These are real people with a real issue and not some handful of people saying what they think having a gambling
addiction is like instead of being those who are actually living through the addiction and trying to recover with others in the community. They are
helping others who may not understand the gambling addiction by telling them real life and personal stories to those who are still struggling with
understanding the

Addiction Is Not Necessary An Addiction
A study was conducted by Caroline Davis in 2014, in which she suggests, that food addiction, is not necessary an addiction. Unlike other addictions
like tobacco, gambling and drugs, food in required for the human body to survive, where the other types are a pleasure centre for the brain in affect,
and is not necessary for human to survive.
An addiction is in which the brain responds to a stimulus, or multiple stimuli, that triggers a respond to the brain, and releases, dopamine to the person
creating a reward system to the user, thus increasing the mood of the person. Therefore, allowing the brain to learn by teaching it to respond to
increased levels of dopamine, by the stimulus (pp.131). For example, the more a person gambles and wins, the better they feel. Even so, there is a
low point for people that gamble or takes drugs, but the need for that persons is to increase their chances of winning, or getting a fix, where they
could combine a mix of food, alcohol, drugs and tobacco (pp.131). Which would make them feel good again, as once again, as dopamine is released
into the system.
According to Davis (2014) that food should not be thought of as addictive, as food is essential for human survival and with a proper diet with all the
vitamins and mineral that the body require humans can live a healthy life (pp. 129). But even so food can be addictive as the process foods have
many compounds added to everyday foods that rewards the brain for eating it, therefore, a person will

Addiction : Addiction And Addiction
Addiction is an illness that changes the way the brain processes information. To understand addiction, you first have to learn its language–how
addiction develops and why addicts continue to use despite the harm it inevitably causes.
Addiction is a mysterious illness because it seems to make such little sense to the onlooker and at times even to the addict. Addicts are prone to
repeating their poor choices because they do not process information correctly.
All addicts have poor insight and poor judgment when using. It is part of the illness of addiction.
Addiction is a dangerous illness. It can literally claim a life in a heartbeat. Once addiction develops, it is hard to stop using. It takes hold like a vice,
squeezing the addict into ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Government statistics on drug abuse patterns begin at twelve years of age (http://1.usa.gov/1OVes6i).
Approximately 6.5 million people ages twelve and older were inappropriate users of prescription painkillers in 2013 (http://usat.ly/1ODnn92).
Between the years 2000 and 2010, the number of annual deaths attributed to abuse of painkillers tripled from 5,000 to 16,500 (http://1.usa.gov
/1qD7CZ2).
The epidemic of IV opioid abuse raises concerns for a resurgence of hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS (http://n.pr/1LLz25M) because addicts are prone to
passing needles and syringes from one person to another.
Kentucky and Indiana struggle to curb outbreaks of Hepatitis C and IV drug abuse (http://bit.ly/1RcypEz and http://usat.ly/1RqsQU2).
Kentucky has the greatest problem with heroin abuse (http://yhoo.it/1Of0zyv).
A county of just 12,000 residents in Kentucky reported overdose deaths of a mother and her son just six months apart. Seven other overdoses were also
reported in that sparsely populated county (http://bit.ly/1hLEf3G).
The Rhode Island Health Department reported that overdoses claimed seventy–two lives in the first three months of 2014 (http://bit.ly/1Anizy0). They
warn that heroin spiked with the powerful opioid fentanyl is especially deadly.
The StarNewsOnline reported that emergency services responded to ten heroin overdose calls in a single weekend in April 2015 in the typically quiet
coastal community of Wilmington, North Carolina (http://bit.ly/1bh98Kh). The

Addiction With Substance Addiction
Addiction is a term used to describe the continued or compulsive use of a substance or engaging in an activity that provides a pleasurable experience,
despite the interference or negative effects it poses on an individual and their responsibilities (PsychologyToday, 2017). Addiction involves the brains
reward, motivation and memory circuit (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2017). Dysfunction within these circuits leads to the pathological
response of pursing reward from a substance or other behaviours (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2017). Two of the main commonly known
addictions are to alcohol and psychoactive substances; however, addiction also encompasses a variety of behaviours such as eating, sex, shopping and
gambling (PsychologyToday, 2017). In this paper I will explore the complex health challenge substance addiction, how the concepts resilience
hardiness and vulnerability relate to substance addiction, at risk individuals and explore resources available for individuals who suffer with this
chronic disease.
In the past, "substance abuse" and "substance dependence" were two different categories in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,
a manual used to aid health care providers in diagnosing and understanding mental illness (Casey, 2017). Recently, the manual has combined the two
categories into one "substance use disorder". Substance use disorder encompasses "hazardous use of a substance causing social or legal problems and

Computer Addiction
Computer addiction
A disorder in which the individual turns to the Internet or plays computer games in an attempt to change moods, overcome anxiety, deal with
depression, reduce isolation or loneliness, or distract themselves from overwhelming problems. The elderly, as well as children and adolescents, are
particularly vulnerable because they may not realize the extent of their dependency. In many instances, individuals with computeraddiction may seek
help for another condition, such as depression, phobias or other addictions. Computer addiction is defined as the immoderate/compulsive use of
computers so much so that it interferes with daily activities. It is a disorder whereby the individual devotes oneself to ... Show more content on
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A 2008 study concluded that "the pathological gambler has clear tendencies towards alcoholism, nicotine addiction, or drug addiction" (Beteille, 2008).
Many other activities when left unchecked may lead to compulsive behavior and ethical conflicts. These activities include excessive cell–phone texting
and social networking.
Disadvantages of Computer Addiction
A person addicted to the Computer will spend most of his time alone, locked in a room, with only his computer for company. This kind of isolation
can lead to a lack of social life, and when he does venture outside, he might find his social skills have suffered. Possibly his only regular interaction
is with online people, and he might now struggle to hold conversations and feel comfortable in social or public environments. A Computer addiction
can create health problems. Some health issues suffered by Computer addicts are bad eyesight, which is caused by spending too much time squinting
at the screen; poor posture and constant computer use can lead to bad back and carpal tunnel syndrome. Because a Computer addiction lowers the
chance of exercise, and those with an addiction might no longer take the time to prepare healthy meals, obesity is also a risk. Some Computer addicts
risk losing their jobs or failing classes, because they spend so much time online and are often late or absent. An Internet addict might also find his
personal relationships suffer under the weight of so much time spent

Behavioral Addictions : Exploring Internet Addiction
Behavioral Addictions:
Exploring Internet Addiction
Kristi Jo Slavens
School of Professional Counseling
Lindsey Wilson College
Author Note
Kristi Jo Slavens, The School of Professional Counseling, Lindsey Wilson
College.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Kristi Jo Slavens, 617 Eastern Avenue, Washington C.H., Ohio, 43160. Email:
kristi.slavens@lindsey.edu.
Abstract
Karl Marx believed that technology was the driving force of society. Whether one agrees with this theory or not, this day and age is largely dependent
on new technologies. At the base of today's technology is the internet. With the creation of smart phones, laptops, and social media outlets, internet
addiction is a term now being applied to those with problematic behaviors surrounding the excessive use of the internet. However, it is important to
note that no standard diagnostic criteria or formal diagnoses are currently recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) for internet
addictions. This paper aims to explore the physiological and psychological effects of the internet on individuals; especially when it is used in excess.
Potential treatment options are also discussed.
Keywords: internet, social media, addictions, internet addiction, treatment Internet Addictions: Its Effects and Treatment Options Recently a video, 5
Crazy Ways Social Media is Changing Your Brain, was produced by Asap Science and went viral (2014). This work, which cites

Adolescence And Addictions : Addiction And Addiction
Adolescence and Addictions Adolescence that are faced with drug addictions are considered addicts with undeniable habits of drug use and little to no
concerns of long term effects on the brain. Most drug additions whether prescription, narcotic, or alcohol, causes detrimental effect on the brain that
impacts ones behaviors and thought process in making precise decisions in daily activities. Brain diseases are rapid among drug users for long periods
of time that in turn can destroy the ones opportunity of normalcy of life (Kakkad, Trivedi, Raichandani, 2014).
Addictions have physical and psychological effects in an individual's life. Although the internet serves great benefits for ones use, it can also serve as an
addiction for individual's that experience sexual addiction or other disorders. For example; a person that suffers with social anxiety disorder could use
the internet as a source of interacting with people instead of socializing in the public. There are other disorders that can cause one to become addicted
to the internet such as, anxiety/panic attacks, depression, and attention–deficit hyperactivity disorder (Goldberg, 2014).
Connections between abuse and addiction in adolescence A strong urge and desire for drugs are feeling and signs ofdrug addiction and abuse for some
adolescents ((Goldberg, 2014). Often time's adolescents will explore and experience whatever drug is the latest or newest trend in society. During
teenage years some adolescents become

The Problem Of Addiction And Addiction
This ted talk was phenomenal it made me really think of how we react to addicts, addiction issues, and related topics. Johann Hari, did a great job of
explaining the current methods of handling addiction from many perspectives, such as political and societal. His journey within his own family took
him all over the world to find the answers he wanted to know for himself and I think this was an inspiring investigation. I believe it is important to
investigate as much as possible when you are looking for a new solution to any issue.
He explained that much of what we think we know about addiction is wrong and gave many examples of why it is incorrect (Hari, 2015). One
specific example that he discussed was if the audience all did heroin for 3 weeks what would we as a society predict would happen next (e.g.
addiction/chemical hooks leading to dependence/physical need). It is clear the common assumption would be that they would become addicts
after those 3 weeks. He then went on to say what if he got hit by a car and was given Diamorphine, which is a stronger form of heroin. He would
have to use it over a period of time and would become addicted. Again, we would think that he would become an addict form this strong medication
because as a society this is the common belief of how the addiction process works. Another example he used was if your grandmother had a hip
replacement and was given medication for it. She would not become an addict, which in my case this did happen and

Addiction : The Problem With Addiction
In order to understand how to treat addiction, it is important to first understand why addiction occurs. Often, there is a misconception on what steps
need to be taken to deal with addiction, and what factors increase the propensity of addiction in the first place. The different models of addiction aim to
clarify and justify reasons why addiction occurs both physiologically and psychologically, as well as provide plausible solutions to stop addiction.
Although the models all contain differing view on why addiction occurs, and tenets and tactics on how to effectively deal with addiction, it is important
to understand that any type of addiction can be harmful and dangerous.
The models that I believe resonate and make the most sense to me ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
CBT is a short term approach, so for substance abuse it may not be effective long enough to prevent relapse Overall, the learned, disease, and family
models don't seem to take into account that substance use is a choice regardless of family perception and history, genetics, or environment.
There were a couple models I have not heard of before, for example, the public health model and the temperance model. I found the temperance model
to be interesting because it seemed to be a forced method to stop alcohol use, and when things are forced they usually yield negative results or don't
last too long. The temperance model mentioned things like prohibition, which didn't stop the use of alcohol in its entirety, but instead led to individual's
illegally selling and drinking liquor as a result. When reading about the public health model, it almost makes substance use sound like a disease as well
because the names of two components are host and agent. What I found interesting is the fact that though it is a three prong approach, host, agent and
environment, interventions can be used separately within any three of the components to allow for change on each level.
In my current work setting, the disease model seems to be embraced. When conducting assessments, often time addiction or substance use is considered
a primary disease or diagnosis, one that can stand alone or be coupled with another mental health issue. Importantly, he reminds us that drug abuse is a

Addiction : The Problem Of Addiction Essay
Addiction Students stroll in to class, their Venti iced soy vanilla lattes in hand rather than a notebook and pen. Keurig coffeemakers are commonplace
in college dorm rooms. Colleges boast the number of Starbucks shops they have on campus. Just a month into the school year, and already many
students' bodies are becoming tolerant to caffeine, needing more and more of it to achieve the desired boost of energy, and if not given their fix,
rebelling by causing headaches and irritability. Could it be said that many students are becoming addicted to caffeine? Yes, if the definition ofaddiction
were simply a physiological dependence or tolerance. Could the man who misses work after a rough night of drinking be called an addict? Yes, if the
definition of addiction were simply extreme misuse of a substance. While dependence and abuse are often used interchangeably with addiction,
addiction is a disease that deserves recognition as a separate entity.
Historically, addiction's definition has mistakenly seemed to include an element of choice; the addict chose to do it to themselves, so if they could just
get a hold of themselves, set their mind to it and quit cold turkey, their addiction would suddenly disappear. Studies have shown however, that
"addiction is a complex condition, a chronic brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence" (American
Psychiatric Association). The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute defines asthma as a

Internet Addiction : Social Network Addiction
8.1 Internet Addiction
There is not a clear stated definition of digital addiction however Shaw and Black (2008) characterize Internet addiction by excessive or poorly
preoccupations, urges or behaviours regarding computer use and internet access that lead to impairment or distress. However as the term addict is a
strong description DA is seen as a general misuse of the internet in various forms, as no formal definition exists the author sees the disorder as
problematic computer usage resulting in negative consequences. According to Young et al DA is a broad term covering a wide variety of behaviours
and impulse control problems. K.Young (1999) also categorised DA into five subtypes of DA, they are cybersexualaddiction, cyberrelationship
addiction; net compulsion (e.g. gambling or shopping on the internet); information overload (e.g. compulsive database searching); and computer
addiction (excessive game–playing). This project highlights social network addiction which falls into the category of cyberrelationship addiction but
also contemplates all other types.
As stated by ONS (office for national statistics) in 2014, 38 million adults (76%) in Great Britain accessed the Internet every day, 21 million more
than in 2006 as well as 22 million households (84%) having Internet access in 2014, up from 57% in 2006. The dramatic increase in internet usage
and access can indicate the widespread of such a fashionable tool; however it is known that as well as being an effective

A man by the name of Michael Robitham once said, "Alcoholics don't have relationships– they take hostages." If we replace "alcoholics" with addicts,
this can be true of any addiction and it is problematic for our society. Addiction is on the rise in our country and it is quickly becoming an epidemic.
The reason for the rapid rise is due, in part, to the fact that many children are following in their addicted parents' footsteps. The future of our country is
at risk as more youth turn towards drugs and alcohol. The government should implement programs that support addicts and their children in order to
stop the cycle of addiction. Children who have addicts in their family can be genetically predisposed to become addicts. When we support programs
that help these children develop coping mechanisms to overcome this predisposition, we can potentially halt the cycle of addiction. Studies have been
conducted to determine why addiction seems to run in families. Some of these studies have concluded that some people who are addicts have fewer
dopamine receptors than other people. This shortage of dopamine receptors can make the experiences in life seem dull and even depressing. In order
to improve their life experience, many people turn to drugs or alcohol to make life more exciting. Unfortunately, this condition is sometimes hereditary.
Also, when a child is raised in an environment where they feel neglected and unwanted, they are at risk of developing mental

Addiction : Substance Abuse And Addiction
Society as a whole is impacted greatly by substance abuse and addiction. Not only does it hurt the abuser directly, but it also becomes an enormous
financial and social burden on society. Addiction wrecks families, and also highly correlates with poverty because the drug abuser ends up giving
everything that they have to keep their addiction going. It also places extraordinarily high demands on the education, criminal justice, and social
service systems. Children and babies both are dangerously impacted by the addiction of their parents and the same addiction is likely to even
show up in their own lives later on. Drug babies are being born every day already addicted to the same substances their mothers have abused; they
are the ones who truly suffer the greatest consequences of the effects of addiction. Teenagers are peer pressured by the alcohol and beer industries to
drink; many alcoholics in our society are a result from binge drinking while in college and even in high school. People bound by these addictions who
never get the help they truly need or lose their family and feel alone often commit suicide because they feel they are unimportant to society and that
ending their own lives is their only means of escape.
Often, it is hard for everyone around the abuser to understand why they became addicted in the first place. People often mistake drug abusers to have
lack in moral principles, when in many situations that is not the case at all. Drug experimentation is one very

Addiction
The Cause of Addiction
COM/156
Each year, there are more deaths and disabilities in the U.S. from substance abuse than from any other cause. In the United States alone, it is reported
that roughly 18 million Americans have alcohol problems; 5 to 6 million have drug problems, and more than 9 million children live with a parent
addicted to alcohol or illicit drugs. Drug addiction continues to be a growing concern, prompting medical and scientific research on a global scale into
the possible causes of addiction and the various levels to which people become drug–dependent. This global issue continues to grow, prompting a rush
to determine the cause in an effort to find a cure. Through research, doctors are learning ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
In fact, the occurrence of actual addiction to marijuana is quite low, despite surveys conducted at local high school where as many as 50% of those
polled reported frequent use of the substance. Of those 50%, only 3% reported they "needed" it. This information suggests that those 3% may have
been genetically predisposed to addiction. At the same time, the popularity of the substance suggests that use may also be attributable to a need to
fit in with peer groups. Considered the second most likely cause of addiction is social dislocation. Feeling unconnected with one's physical or social
environment has proven to be a key link in those with addiction. Studies have shown that individuals whom have been displaced are at higher risk for
addiction that an individual with a stable environment. Often times, there is significant social pressure to "fit in" out of fear of rejection. In an article
written by Simon Fraser University of Canada Professor Bruce Alexandar, "Addiction in the modern world can be best understood as a compulsive
lifestyle that people adopt when they are dislocated from the myriad intimate ties between people and groups – from the family to the spiritual
community – that are essential for every person in every type of society." (Luntz, Issues 74, pg. six 2006). This lends to understanding why some are
coping with social pressures through use of addictive

Video Addiction : Video Game Addiction
Video Game Addiction
Video game addiction is just like any other addiction in the world! Though it might not be as deadly or destructive to the body as smoking or drinking
alcohol, it can be just as dangerous. According to psychiatrist Michael Brody, MD, a definition of addiction would be:
1.The person needs more and more of a substance or behavior to keep him going.
2.If the person does not get more of the substance or behavior, he becomes irritable and miserable (Bakker)
According to the definition given above, compulsive gaming meets these criteria, and withdrawal symptoms can occur. "The lure of a fantasy world is
especially pertinent to online role–playing games. These are games in which a player assumes the role of a fictional character and interacts with other
players in a virtual world. As Young puts it, an intelligent child who is unpopular at school can "become dominant in the game." The virtual life
becomes more appealing than real life." (Bakker). Video gameaddiction might not seem like a big deal when compared to drug or alcohol addiction but
it can and will ruin a life. If a child spends 4 to 5 hours a day playing a video game by the time he is 21 he will only have the social skills of a 12 year
old. If he gives of playing sports or going to hang out with his friends he wont know how to talk to women when he is older and or be lazy and
unathletic. If an older person becomes an addict to video games it can jeopardize their job or relationship.
According to

Addiction And The Treatment Of Addiction
What if I was to tell you that everything you know about addiction is untrue? What if I was to say that our pre–conceived views on addiction were
based on ignorance. It's pretty simple really, it's about CONNECTION NOT addiction.
Good morning Mrs. Arnold, Ms. Shields and class, today I will be talking to you about addiction and arguing how the treatment of this disease is
actually quite simple. 1) we disconnected them from their substance abuse 2) we reconnected them with important people in their lives who they love
a value, regardless of how damaged that relationship has become 3) 100% on time and energy should be spent on strong relationships and moving them
to next stage in their lives.
Have you ever watched someone you love fall into a spiral of darkness, crowded with pain, self anguish and pure contradiction of both love and hatred
for their weakness?.
A weakness which has both defined and collapsed every relationship, every situation that they have. Despite this fixation, this person is thoroughly
aware that it is in fact an enslavement, they know the consequences, they are acquainted with direct results. And yet they continue to endeavor with this
drug. Why?
Firstly, I would like to begin by telling you all, that everything you know or have been taught about addiction or the treatment of addiction, is untrue.
Despite being students, we seem to have these pre–conceived ideas and ignorant views as to what this disease actually is. Deny it or not, I've heard

Addiction
Society has a worldview on how they characterize a person who is an addict, that worldview is determined from personal beliefs, family beliefs, or
experiences through interacting with an addict. Usually, people assume that addiction is a choice not a chronic disease, believing that they can just
stop whenever, no realizing that the drug is what "shaped" them (Gawne–Kelnar). People stigmatize a person who is an addict without complete
understanding. Most people have a fixed mindset of what an addict is since a young age, but fail to realize that addiction is a complex illness and
disease. Addiction is a psychological problem that interacts with the stimulation of the brain. It is a chronic disease that triggers the frontal lobes of the
brain ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Despite his own son's addiction, Sheff has his own addiction towards making sure his son is going in the right direction and not ending up like those
he knew in his past experiences. The novel focuses on the damage a child inflicts by abusing drugs. It also explores how having a drug–addicted child
breaks the heart of Sheff, but sheds light on other parents who may be going through or have gone through the same thing. As a whole, the novel
elaborates on the themes of addiction and drug abuse from a father's viewpoint in relation to his son's addiction. Sheff says that, "Addicts are in
denial and their families are in it with them because often the truth is too conceivable, too painful, and too terrifying" (Chapter 1). Each person
present in Beautiful Boy plays an important role in the family as the attention seems to only focus on Nic, the addict. According to the "Addiction
and Family Roles" article, Nic is the "addict," the person who uses the drug and denies they do not have a problem. Sheff is the "enabler" willing to
pick up the pieces of his son trying to help him from being an addict, yet leads his son to continue as so. Karen, Sheff's second wife and Nic's
mother–in–law, is the "hero" in the family. She is the "good face" between Sheff and Nic willing to keep the bond with the both on them, yet she does
not get the love and

Addictions
Addictions can be something scary for everyone involved. There are several different types of addictions that are dealt with every day in our society.
When someone has an addiction to something it not only affects them, but also anyone around them that could be impacted. There are many different
treatments depending on the specific addiction. As well, there are many different causes to various addictions. This is an important topic to understand
whether you are the one addicted or someone looking in. There are too many addictions that go untreated because of failure to recognize. The process
of addictions can be very confusing. All addictions go through a cycle of relapse and remission. Addictions can be classified as substance... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
There has been a growth on the studies of positive psychology on addictions. This type of treatment can be used with all different types of
addictions. It deals with a therapy that increases positive feelings and behaviors. There are interventions that are used to increase a person's overall
happiness. This method has been proven to increase a person's overall attitude. There has not been enough research done to fully test the outcomes of
this test. Some discrepancies could be said to be that just because their attitude is different does not necessarily mean it will help their addiction. There
are plenty of people out there that have good attitudes and outcomes on life but yet still fight with an addiction. Behavioral addictions are becoming
more and more prevalent. This would be someone whose symptoms are behaviorally expressed. Examples could be kleptomania, compulsive buying
and pathological gambling or lying. The studies done have showed that treatments have included pharmacological and psychological treatments. The
studied have shown that therapy can be effective for treating this type of addiction. It is also being studied to see how genetics can affect behavioral
addictions. There is a strong thought that genetics can have a strong impact on whether or not someone would turn out with an addiction. Evidence is
reviewed from families, twins and also adoptions, with adoptive parents and birth parents being looked at. There is a

Addiction Short Story Addiction
According to DrugAbuse.gov, long–term studies of drug use patterns show that most high school students who use other illegal drugs have tried
marijuana first. Teens are often peer pressured into doing drugs; they get to comfortable with them they inevitably reframe to harder and more potent
drugs. In Cole Meyer's short story, "Addiction" the narrator is a struggling teen addict and his addiction continues to worsen as he ages. Meyer uses
setting, character and conflict to illustrate the devastating effects of addiction on the individual. In the short story, the protagonist lives in an
environment where the use of drugs and alcohol is so common, that even teenagers had easy access to the products. The narrator explains, "The
first time I heard Pink Floyd was with Alison. Her parents were hippies, and they'd let us get high in her bedroom", this shows that even the
parents of the teens condone their actions and did not care about what they were doing. There were even special places one could go to receive the
drugs; he explains, "Aaron's house for weed, Ryan's for coke...The alley behind Home Depot was for heroin". The constant leniency of the parents
are guardians of the teens enable them to do as they please and inevitability sends them down the wrong path in life. The protagonist of the story is
an unnamed male whose experiments with alcohol and weed at fifteen years old lead to harder drugs and greater consequences that threaten his
safety and security. For example, the narrator says, "Donny said he saw me standing sorta wonky in the back and said I need a hit. Donny was the
first to get me high", he implies that his friend Donny got him high because of how he was standing. The use of drugs did not just stop at marijuana,
the narrator also indulged in alcohol, he goes on saying, "The rest of the kids would watch as Mark and I shotgunned Schlitz beneath the bleachers of
the stadium". Which eventually led to him dropping out if school and focusing on his habits and not his well–being. The protagonist constant
influences from his friend and associates increased his use and encouraged the damages that were being done to him and his body. His habits started to
heighten and the stronger drugs were amongst him,

Addiction Social Media Addiction
In the modern society of internet and technological advancement, there are plenty of very sophisticated devices that make addiction to social media
even more relatable in the daily events of life. The study has revealed that the majority of network users and addicts are the young people in the
society more specifically between the ages of 14 and 19 years old. Further, research has also revealed that up to 54% of the social network subscribers
are already addicts to the same. Some of the way I do not think so that TV shows, video games and internet increase violence in our society because
these thinks teach us how to learn technology but it is all depend on people's mentality how they are using the technology. The social network platform
hosts a variety of services to choose from each a bit different from the other. The addiction is more accurate to the services that the addict has
subscribed to on their devices.
More specifically, it is true to say that some of the addicts only know about the existence of the services that they have subscribed to and are more
often unaware of the existence of other services. For instance, there are those people who are addicted to Twitter and Facebook, but at the same time,
they might not be Snapchat or even Instagram. There are a variety of social media utilities such as: LinkedIn, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter
and YouTube among many others which of whom have specific addicts who also have preferences in their choosing with

Addiction
I am the solution to my problem "The truth is most families discover is that no one can cure another person's addiction. Only addicts can do that for
themselves." The textbook definition of addiction is a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance. Some researches speak of two
types of addictions; substance addictions (such as alcoholism, drug abuse, and smoking) and process addictions (such as gambling, spending,
shopping, eating, and sexual activity. Users that are guilty of any one of the addictions listed above are so caught up in their behavior they may not be
aware of the problems it is causing for themselves or others. The word addiction can have many different meanings. Addiction can be described as a
physical quality. Physical addiction is a biological state in which the body adapts to the presence of a drug so that the drug no longer has the same
effect. When physically addicted to a drug there is a circumstance of overreaction by the brain to the drug. There is something wired in your brain with
the addiction that enables you to gravitate back to the drug on a continuous basis.
`People can also be psychologically addicted to an action or substance. The majority of incidents where individuals obsessively use drugs, gamble,
shop, and engage in sexual activity is due to being emotionally stressed. This can take place whether they have a physical addiction or not. This type
of addiction is not based of drugs or brain effects. We need

Addiction And Model Of Addiction
There are many different theories about addiction and model. I clearly understand that I have to write at least two hundred fifty words. They described
the mental part of the disease of alcoholism as having to do with the obsession. Is it about the distorted thinking that makes the need to drink the most
important aspect of our life?
The disease of addiction is a three, fold it affect you physically, mental, spiritually and I would have to say emotional. This disease can manifest in
anyone of these area at different time individual life.
The physical part of the disease involves the idea of compulsion. That is the phenomenon of continuing to drink after taking that first drink is the
inability to control or set and keep limits on our drinking.

Addiction
Addiction
Addiction
Abstract Addiction knows no prejudice; it does not care what race, religion, sex or orientation. You can be addicted to drugs, gambling, x–box,
shopping and eating. Addiction is an illness that requires, for most, professional help and that once you are an addict you are always an addict.
Addiction is everywhere, from celebrity tabloids, to television, and possibly to a family member or close friend. There is alcoholism, drug abuse, and
gambling addiction; the effects of such are devastating. The purpose of this paper is to address some of the different forms of addiction and types of
addictive behaviors.
Addiction is defined as a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
(Omniomania: Shopping Addiction, 2010)
When people who suffer from omniomania begin to feel anxious, nervous or depressed the go shopping to make themselves feel better, they get a
"high" from shopping, a high similar to that of drug addicts. It is believed that shopping provides a stimulant of beta–endorphines in the brain, which
give the person the "high" feeling. People continue to shop to gain the euphoric feeling and then can become addicted to shopping. (Intili, 2004)
It is believed that about 6% of Americans have a shopping addiction; of the 6% 90% are women. To a shopping addict trips to the mall become the
main way to cope with stress, even when it is having a negative impact on the rest of their life. The addiction will affect their relationships and finances.
(Omniomania: Shopping Addiction, 2010) It is a never ending merry–go–round; the stress from relationships and finances just reinforces the urge to
shop more in order to feel better.
Treatment for this addiction usually starts with financial counseling. The shopper is usually in denial as to the amount of debt and or effect they
shopping has had on their life and they need see it in paper and admit to having a problem before any kind of counseling or therapy will work.
Gambling addiction also know as compulsive gambling is a type of impulse control disorder. (Healthyplace.com, 2008) It is a progressive disease that
can wreck havoc on relationships, work, and finances.

Sex Addiction : An Addiction
Sonya Steptoe
Professor Jose Flores
Law and Ethics
May 1, 2016
Sex Addiction: An Addiction In The Background
With regards to an addiction there are still level headed discussions among specialists with regards to the fundamental causes. Part of the argument is
whether or not addiction is really a disease or just some ongoing desire that a person chooses not to stop indulging in. A dependence on sex, which is
still not completely perceived as a genuine habit by numerous people, is still up for debate. In any case, specialists are beginning to acknowledge that
individuals can become dependent to sex pretty much as they can liquor, medications, betting, and any legal or illegal sustenance.
Similarly as with all addictions, it is not yet ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Hagedorn and Juhnke (2005) maintain that, "17 to 37 million Americans struggle with sexual addictions" and "these figures are greater than the
combined number of Americans who are addicted to gambling or have eating disorders". Addiction to sex has turned into a real, often not talked about
or acknowledged social issue. The number of people that can be diagnosed with or classified as having a sexual addiction is expected to expand greatly
because of the ever increasing internet utilization, the ability to be able to access it almost anywhere as well as being able to keep your real identity
from being discovered. Another reason that is worth mentioning is the amount of sexual material that is available to one while surfing the internet.
Despite the fact that abnormal sex issues have been around for a very long time, the current medications that are prescribed do not seem to be all that
effective. Because sex addiction by itself is not one of society 's mainstream addictions and therefore not talked about as much and most of the time is
in existence with other dysfunctions, therapists often have a hard time diagosing and treating people with this issue.
In spite of the fact that sex addicts desire sex for the euphoric joy it gives them – much like the high that addicts experience when they abuse legal and
illegal drugs – they also utilize it for other similar reasons. For them, sex has little to do with closeness, intimacy, relationship or other legitimate
reasons. It

The amount of damage that addiction brings into people's lives can be staggering. Society's perspective of addiction can either help or hinder the
problem. Some addictions are seen negatively by society while others are not recognized as harmful. Some perspectives view the issue moralistically,
creating shame regarding the problem. This approach is rarely helpful when dealing with the problem of addiction. Psychology, through a
biopsychosocial model, attempts to offer a scientific perspective. This approach provides a positive perspective to deal with the issue of addiction. In
addition to the biopsychosocial model, a Christian (rather than moralistic) perspective offers a solid framework with which to address the issue of
addiction.
How society views addictions and treats individuals with addictions can have a strong influence, either positively or negatively, on our own
perspective. What other people think informs and influences our own opinions. Within religious communities, alcohol addiction is often viewed
from a moralistic perspective. A perspective, as described by Leshner (1997), that views addicts as, "weak or bad people, unwilling to lead moral
lives" Addiction is a brain disease and it matters (as cited in Williamson, 2012, p. e6). A negative view of addiction could prevent those struggling with
addictions from admitting there is a problem and seeking help. Williamson (2012) notes that an unwillingness to seek treatment may "be rooted in the
widespread desire to

Gambling Addiction
Introduction Gambling can stimulate the brain's reward system much like drugs or alcohol can, leading to addiction (Compulsive, 2016). That is when
gambling goes from a fun, harmless pastime to an unhealthy obsession with serious consequences. Whether you bet on horses, buy lottery tickets, play
poker, or pull the arm on the One–Armed Bandits–in a casino, at the track, or online–if your gambling becomes a problem, it can strain your
relationships, interfere with work, and lead to financial disaster. It can cause you to do things you never thought you would do like stealing money,
not paying your bills, and pawning everything you own to get more money. All so you can keep gambling or pay your debts. Gamblingaddiction also
called Compulsive gambling is the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life. Gambling means that you're willing to
risk something you value in the hope of getting something of even greater value (Compulsive, 2016).
Individual Impact
When a person is a compulsive gambler or an addict, the effects are devastating. Many addicts will use credit cards , loans, or even tap our their
retirement fund to pay for their addiction. The result places them in debt to the point of losing homes, jobs, vehicles, and even filing bankruptcy. If they
become to attached to the gambling they can forget to care for themselves causing poor physical and emotional health. It can also cause additional
addictions to drugs, smoking, or alcohol

Behavioral Addictions
Behavioral Addictions; Where to Draw the Line?
The term "addiction" is a compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit–forming substance based on www.merriamwebster.com, and how it is
used has been the subject of controversy for decade. Whether we read it on the newspapers and magazines, heard about it on the radio, watched it on
the television, and talked about it on social media, they emphasize often addictions related to substance used, for instance either drugs, alcohols,
including prescription medicines and cigarettes. Evidently, what we do not see as often on the headlines are behavioral addictions that we may be
ignoring, pay less attention or pay no attention at all.
Of all behavioral addictions, an addiction to gambling is ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
People can be specifically wrap up with different types of addictions which can also cause major damage the same or even worse than substance abuse.
It is not a poor relation of substances addictions. Whether into shopping, gambling, plastic surgery, or something we might not thought of, such as
tanning. What will happen if we continue to ignore these behavioral addictions? Frequently, it is hard to recognize that we are suffering from it; people
living with behavioral addictions are unable to stop engaging in the behavior for any length of time without treatments and interventions. One
important fact: treatment saves lives. There is no uniform treatment for behavioral addictions; each person receives different level of treatments due to
the severity of the disorder. Professional program treatment are often modified and requires a personalized plan that is tailored to each patient's
addiction. Although the treatment may be different, the ultimate goal is to enable us to achieve lasting sobriety. Every single person is vulnerable to
addiction and every single person in our culture perhaps in our planet can become compulsive, but the big question is where to draw the line? A life
that is free of any addictions maintained daily applications. It is a beautiful life, full of spontaneity, creativity, and enthusiasm. Our life belongs to

Addiction and Addictions Internet Addictions
Introduction
There are many factors that are damaging today 's society. Addictions are a fast growing concern, it has branched off and caused many problems
whether it be related to drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, Internet, or eating. Addictions are something society faces everyday. Although there are many
reasons behind why addiction are growing, and where they stemmed from, today 's society has focused primarily on how someone with an
addictions problem can seek help. Also the many Gaps and Barriers around addictions are enabling people who wish to seek help from receiving it.
The increasing amounts of people with drug or alcohol addictions has increased vastly over the years especially among young teens who are still yet
to be of age to ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Since there are no programs offered for children of a young age who have already begun drinking to seek help it allows the problem to grow instead of
getting to it when it is still fresh and not yet a full–blown addiction. Although many services do not offer help to those who are disabled. Addiction
services are generally offered only in English, which poses a problem for those who have immigrated to Canada or simply have grown up speaking a
different language. The hours for addiction centers is limited, unless it is a housing service, most programs run on the nine to five clock, enabling those
who seek help after hours from getting the service that is required by them.
Local Services
Personal Development Programs:
Men 's Withdrawal Management Center
This shelter is for men going through withdrawals from drugs or alcohol. They offer a short–term residence. Also give information and education
sessions for men in a safe environment. Also provide one on one counseling for individuals in purpose of defining specific needs and how to treat
them. They take in men who are inebriated, who are going through withdrawals or that are at high risk of falling into old patterns. Service for this
center in 7 days a week 24 hours a day, there is no fee; admission is immediate accordingly to bed availability.
Advocacy and Referral Programs

Mental Health and Addictions Services in Grey Bruce
This program also known as DART (drug

Addiction : Behavioral Addiction And Substance Addiction
"food" all of the symptoms, diagnostic tools, criteria, and outcomes would be exactly the same. There are two categories of addiction: behavioral
addiction and substance addiction. It is believed that food addiction could fall under either. With the growing rate of obesity in the world; this is an
addiction that needs to be moved to the forefront with drugs, alcohol, and gambling.
The loose interpretation of the word addiction is "anything irresistible that creates problems." According to the American Society of Addiction, the
medical definition of addiction is "a primary chronic disease of the brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits
leads to characteristics biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward
and/or relief by substance use or other behavior."
Comparing the two categories of addiction, behavioral and substance. Behavioral addiction is triggered by the reward system in the brain brought on
by the feeling experienced while participating in the behavior in question. Sex, working, gaming, gambling, pornography, and eating are examples of
behavioral addictions. Substance addiction is triggered by the same reward system, however, is brought on by the chemical addition to the substance.
Addictive substances like drugs, alcohol and highly palatable foods, also known as hyper–palatable.

Behavioral Addictions And Substance Abuse Addictions
In 2013, the release of the updated Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM–5) added gambling disorder to the
category titled Substance–Related and Addictive Disorders. (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 2013) In the previous edition
of the DSM, gambling, along with other behavioral addictions were in the Impulse Control Disorders category of the DSM–III and DSM–IV (Clark,
2014). Behavioral Addictions are said to be around for hundreds of years. For example, gambling was part of daily life in ancient Greece. (Hekster,
2002). In the first edition of American Psychiatric Association in 1812, there was detailed mention of excessive sexual desire (Rush, 1812). Yet,
behavioral... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
(Rosenberg, Curtiss, Feder, 2014)
The American Psychiatric Association definesaddiction as: the failure to resist an impulse, drive, or temptation to perform an act that is harmful to the
person or to others (American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 4. Washington, DC: American
Psychiatric Publishing, Inc; 2000. text revision (DSM–IV–TR). This definition was not limited to substance abuse addictions.
Addiction is defined by Aviel Goodman as; "Addiction is a condition in which a behavior that can function both to produce pleasure and to reduce
painful affects is employed in a pattern that is characterized by two key features: (1) recurrent failure to control the behavior, and (2) continuation of
the behavior despite significant harmful consequences." (Neurobiology of addiction: An integrative review 2007 pg. 270)
Marc Potenza, who did a phenomenal amount of research on behavioral addictions, believes that components of addictions are found to have the
following affects: continued involvement in the behavior despite adverse consequences. No or limited self–control over the behavior which leads to
compulsive involvement to this behavior. And lastly, an appetite or urge to continue practicing the substance of choice. (Potenza 2006, pg 120, the
neurobiology of addiction).
To answer the question, what qualifies a behavior as an addiction; A behavior can qualify as an

Addiction And The Family : Addiction
Addictions and The Family Addiction has been an aspect in the family atmosphere for centuries. The majority of treatment options have focused on the
addict and how to help them and not dealing with the issues that the family members are facing as well. When families are faced with a loved one
dealing with an addiction they go through physical challenges such as possible abuse, social challenges, emotional distress such as depression, and
financial hardships. In the article Family Systems Theory: A Unifying Framework For Codependence, Prest and Protinsky quote C. Whitfield " The
compulsive and addictive behavioral patterns in which these people are engaged seriously affect the lives of three to five people with whom they are
closely ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The biological factors that reasearchers say might influence addiction are genetic factors. Researchers have contributed genetics as a cause since there
is "hereditary biological differences that make some individuals either more or less susceptible to drug dependence than others" (U.S Congress, Office
of Technology pg. 6). When there are biological influences involved in addiction, and there is one or more family members that have suffered from
addiction there could be the possibility of a genetic deposition for addiction. Psychological factors that could contribute to addiction are; depression,
death in the family, and the need to take risks. In the commentary by Roozen et al. Involving Families in Addiction Treatment– The Way Forward he
states that "Research has shown consistently that family members living with an active addiction problem suffer stress that can be severe and
long–lasting and are frequent users of the health–care system, presenting with physical and psychological stress symptoms." (Roozen et al. pg. 105). In
our current society people are under more pressure and stress from not only personal problems but work and social issues as well. These issues may
cause people to start using some sort of an addictive substance in an effort to feel normal. A death in the family can be unbearable for some individuals
and they will

Addiction's Effects on Families and Communities

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