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Addiction Studies
The term addiction was first coined by Shakespeare in 1599 in Henry V and since then it has come to have wide and diverse meanings. The most accepted and agreed definition of it is that it’s a primary, progressive, chronic disease with genetic, psychosocial and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestation. It is characterised by having impaired control over the use of a substance, preoccupation with it and the use of it despite the dangerous consequences.
Addiction is generally associated with drug tolerance; both medical and otherwise although the term has a broader range of meanings today. While it is commonly referred to as a disease it can fall under different headings and is treated accordingly. A course in addiction studies will seek to educate students on these various types and the most successful way of handling it.
For example substance dependency is considered to be a very specific type of addiction. This is when an individual persists in the use of a substance despite the problems with it and the detrimental effect it may have on their lives. This is similar to but to be distinguished from a physical dependency which manifests itself through the appearance of characteristic withdrawal symptoms when the use of the substance ceases; the most obvious examples being nicotine or alcohol. This occurs due to the initial attribute of a certain substance to induce pleasure. Continued use transforms this into a need to relieve anxiety with the substance making physical dependency an overwhelming factor in the process.
Psychological dependency is closely linked to physical dependency. It involves the dependency of the mind on the substance, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, insomnia or depression. This is not limited to substances; activities and behavioural patterns can be considered to fall under this if they become uncontrollable; examples being gambling or work addiction.
Entrants to an addiction studies course will explore the issues that arise from problems of these and other kinds of dependencies. The ultimate aim is to demystify the abuse of substances and educate students as to the process of recovery. This will take an academic and theoretical approach from a variety of perspectives including social, cultural, psychological and psychoanalytical; a typical course will analyse how all of these perspectives interact with each other into understanding and curing addiction. These courses are suited to those already involved in social work or care but are also a popular option for those with a desire to understand substance abuse and the power of the human mind and how to use the latter to regain control.
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