To begin with, there were a few takeaways from understanding and learning about the addiction models. As human beings, we can fall into some addiction, whether it is a shopping addiction, spending addiction, gambling addiction, porn addiction, or a workaholic working many hours at the office, whether chemical or behavioral addictive patterns. Furthermore, with so many different types of addictions, various kinds of models can treat the addiction.

Second, the Volitional Model may fit more into a worldview for some who believe addictive behavior is mainly a personal choice and responsibility. We can go back to the story of Adam and Eve; even though they were tempted, individual choices and decisions were made on their own accord. However, studying the science of addiction, many have come to realize that addictive behavior affects the circuitry of the brain and the reward system that increases dopamine, making the addiction more challenging to break, causing the Disease Model of the brain. Both are true when it comes to addiction. However, if I combine the two models into one, it would look like the Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual Model. 

 Next, this model encompasses several factors that would benefit a person with an addiction in achieving abstinence in whatever addiction they may be dealing with and assist in their recovery process. “Addiction is considered as having a myriad of causations and contributing factors, which provide multiple pathways to recovery.” (Clinton & Scalise, 2013). In discussing the essential features of the three models of bio, psycho, and social, many insights can be learned about an individual’s addictive behavior and how it can impact their lives.

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When looking at the life of a person with a substance use disorder, we must investigate their family background and the history of any drug use in the family. This is where bio-comprehensive assessments are so critical in the human services field so that workers can adequately identify signs of abuse either from the maternal or parental side of the individual’s parents. For example, if a father and mother have alcohol use disorder and have dysfunctional parenting skills, it is most likely that the child may end up being an alcoholic. Sometimes, alcoholism in the home results in domestic abuse, which could traumatize a child. He or she may grow up as an adult and turn to drink to numb the pain and physically abuse their children or spouse.

Comparative, this could and does lead to psychological damage to an individual growing up in that type of environment. Not only is the individual dealing with a destructive substance, but now must deal with possible trauma, anger, bitterness, and depression. If a licensed professional counselor sees the individual, this person could be diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder, having both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. The social model of addiction aspect could be a form of learned behavior, both positive and negative. Social or environmental habits are formed and developed by using substances that can be negative. It can also benefit a person by having a peer support system who is looking to decrease addictive behavior and who wants to stop.

Finally, Clinton and Scalise (2013) state that the models of addictions are “The disease model, genetic model, biological model, choice model, personality model, coping/social learning model, sociocultural model, and spiritual model” ( pg, 27-28).

References:

Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.

Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment – Ember Recovery Center. https://emberrecovery.com/co-occurring-disorder-treatment/