NCJ Number
243057
Date Published
2013
Length
162 pages
Annotation
This report from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction presents information on models and theories of drug addiction.
Abstract
This report was produced to increase the understanding of the nature of addiction. The report uses the lessons learned from studying alcohol, tobacco, and non-pharmacological addictions to provide an understanding of addiction to illicit drugs. The report begins with a summarization of theories and models of addiction, with specific focus on individuals and populations. A comprehensive theory of addiction is proposed, one that states that "combating addiction requires an analysis of the capabilities, opportunities and motivations needed for change in an individual or target population, followed by a selection of appropriate responses from a range of interventions." This model is then analyzed to see how it can be applied in assessment, prevention, and treatment. Several conclusions are reached as a result of the analysis and are discussed in the report. These conclusions deal with the multifaceted aspect of addiction and the diverse models that have been proposed to deal with the problem. Tables, figures, and references