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Explanations for Addiction

Explanations for addiction incorporate both biological and psychological factors. Understanding these dual influences provides a complete model of vulnerability and development.

Biological Factors: Genetic Vulnerability

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Hereditary Influence

Research shows addiction runs in families, suggesting genetic influences increase vulnerability.
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Dopamine Pathways

Specific genes may affect how individuals respond to substances or regulate dopamine reward pathways.
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Gene-Environment Interaction

Genetic predisposition is acknowledged, but genes always interact with the environment.

Psychological Factors: Key Concepts

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Peer Influence

Peer groups can strongly influence initiation and continuation of substance use.
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Social Learning

Theory emphasizing the role of environmental factors in addiction, primarily through modelling behaviour.
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Coping Mechanisms

Psychological stress and coping mechanisms also contribute to addiction development.

Empirical Evidence: The Kaij Study

Twin Study of Alcohol Abuse

Kaij’s twin study compared concordance rates for alcohol abuse in identical (monozygotic) and non-identical (dizygotic) twins. Identical twins showed higher concordance, indicating a genetic component. This research highlights the influence of hereditary factors in vulnerability.

Mechanisms of Peer Influence

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Positive Influence (Mechanism) Peer influence operates through modelling behaviour and reinforcing substance-related rewards.
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Vulnerable Groups (Context) Adolescents and young adults are particularly susceptible to peer influence, making social context critical in addiction development.

Synthesis: Nature and Nurture

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Comprehensive Understanding: Considering both genetic predisposition and environmental triggers provides a comprehensive understanding of addiction.

Addiction Explanations Deck
Q
Biological Explanation Emphasis

What does the biological explanation for addiction emphasize?

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Answer

Genetic factors and hereditary vulnerability to addiction.

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Genetic Vulnerability Evidence

What evidence supports genetic vulnerability in addiction?

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Answer

Higher concordance rates for alcohol abuse in identical twins compared to non-identical twins.

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Role of Genes

How do genes contribute to addiction?

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Answer

By affecting responses to substances and regulating dopamine reward pathways.

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Psychological Explanation

What is a key psychological explanation for addiction?

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Answer

Peer influence through social learning and environmental factors.

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Adolescent Vulnerability

Why are adolescents particularly vulnerable to addiction?

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Answer

They are more susceptible to peer pressure and social modelling.

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Social Learning Theory

How does social learning theory relate to addiction?

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Answer

Addiction can develop through observing and imitating peer behaviour.

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Environmental Role

What role does the environment play in addiction?

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Answer

It triggers and reinforces addictive behaviours alongside genetic predispositions.

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Comprehensive Approach

What approach gives a more comprehensive understanding of addiction?

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Answer

Considering both genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.

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🌸 Nature Quiz

1. Which biological factor is most commonly linked to addiction?

Addiction often runs in families, indicating a hereditary component influencing vulnerability.

2. Kaij’s twin study showed that:

Identical twins had higher concordance rates, supporting genetic influence.

3. According to social learning theory, addiction develops primarily through:

Observing and imitating peers can reinforce substance use.

4. Which group is most vulnerable to addiction due to peer influence?

This group is more susceptible to peer pressure and social influence.

5. A comprehensive explanation for addiction includes:

Interaction between biology and environment provides a fuller understanding.

📊 Results

  • Notes and Quiz
  • Psychology
  • GCSE
  • Addiction
  • AQA