The Shift from Moral Failure to Medical Condition
Historically, conditions like addiction were viewed through a 'moral model,' seeing them as character flaws. The disease model theory, gaining prominence from the mid-20th century, notably with E.M. Jellinek's work on alcoholism, reframed these as legitimate health problems. This shift allowed for more compassionate treatment and scientific investigation.
Core Tenets and Implications
The disease model suggests that chronic conditions, like addiction, are diseases based on underlying physiological issues, similar to conditions such as diabetes. For addiction, this involves observable brain changes and a cyclical process involving different brain regions. The model emphasizes factors like neurobiological changes from substance use, genetic predisposition, and environmental influences. It promotes medical management, including medication and behavioral therapies, and views it as a chronic illness requiring long-term care.
Critiques and Other Models
While beneficial for reducing stigma, the model faces criticism regarding its potential to downplay individual control, persistent stigma, and oversimplification of complex social and psychological factors. Other models exist, including the moral model which attributes issues to character flaws, and the biopsychosocial model, which integrates biological, psychological, and social factors. A comprehensive understanding often integrates perspectives from various models for effective, personalized care. For more details on the neuroscience of addiction, refer to {Link: NIDA https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction}.
