The Biological Model of Addiction

The Biological Model of Addiction:

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In the continuing search for the causes of addictive behavior, various models have been proposed. These are similar to theories, but instead of trying to explain addiction, a model tries to put it in a larger framework so that useful therapies can then be developed. So a model is a more general statement that gives guidance for treatment and suggests useful areas of research.

The biological model of addiction suggests that addiction is an inherited trait, similar to a genetic disease. It largely eliminates the idea that morality or societal influences are the main drivers of addiction. Rather, it suggests that addiction is inborn and when exposed to the opportunity, those vulnerable will take up the behavior. Other addiction models usually accept that there is some biological component, but don’t give it first place in the mix.