The idea that addiction can be treated by using a biopsychosocial model of addiction has been around for many years, but what exactly is this model? According to this theory, individuals suffering from addiction develop certain behavioral and emotional disorders that lead to compulsive substance use. This type of addiction develops in people who are struggling with feelings of emptiness or emotional isolation. Many experts have argued against the biopsychosocial model, arguing that it fails to provide an accurate depiction of the physiological, psychological and emotional processes that lead to addiction. They point out that the models fail to provide any information on the biological foundations of addiction and the unique contribution that the brain makes to the development of addictive behaviors. In fact, they argue that biological factors may actually result in the development of these behaviors, not acting as triggers. Instead of focusing on the biological causes of addiction, proponents of the biopsychosocial model of addiction prefer to focus on the psychological and mental health aspects of addiction.

Biopsychosocial Model Of Addiction Theory

Although the biopsychosocial systems theory is an important part of treatment, there are critics who claim that the model is too simple. Instead of looking at both the biological and psychological factors that contribute to substance use and addiction, the biopsychosocial systems theory only focuses on one aspect. For these critics, there are two important factors to consider when looking at the development of substance use and addiction. These are the individual’s genetic predisposition towards substance use and their personal experiences with traumatic events. According to the biopsychosocial systems theory, people with a genetic predisposition to addiction may be exposed to negative social and psychological influences that trigger certain biological and behavioral responses that lead to addiction. However, unlike other forms of addiction where people are literally forced to turn to drugs or alcohol, this theory suggests that individuals have the freedom to make a free choice to use drugs and alcohol. As a result, they can develop compulsive behaviour patterns and experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The compulsion and reliance upon drugs and alcohol become such a strong compulsion that it leads to the inability to control use of the substance. This inability to control use creates a chemical imbalance in the brain that results in a brain disease such as substance abuse and addiction.

According to the biopsychosocial systems model of addiction, substance use and addiction can be cured through the use of counselling and therapy. The theory maintains that individuals who have developed compulsive behaviour patterns due to a traumatic life experience are the ones who need treatment. They may have experienced abuse during childhood or may have developed the disorder later in life. Through counselling and therapy, they are able to make a conscious decision not to succumb to their biological and psychological drives to use substances. People who have developed addictive tendencies can benefit from a biopsychosocial model of addiction treatment. The biopsychosocial models can help them learn how to increase the amount of pleasure they derive from their illicit drugs and alcohol use. It also provides information on how they can increase their personal safety. These individuals can benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy. This kind of therapy helps the person to identify their bodily and emotional responses to their illicit drug and alcohol use. It teaches them how they can avoid patterns of behavior that lead to repeated substance use and addiction. Speak with an addiction specialist today.