Review the topic resources related to substance use disorders and process addictions. How do
process addictions differ from substance use disorders? What are three ways in which the
treatment approach will vary from process addiction to substance use disorders? How will age
and/or developmental stage influence the treatment approach?
When focusing on process addiction to substance use disorders, treatments are needed so
that individuals will address their drug abuse and addictions. Most of the drug use or
addictions are associated with medical problems, psychological problems, and/or social
problems. The importance of screening and assessment in the treatment of process
addiction is paramount (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016). Long-term treatments (screening and
assessment), behavioral counseling (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or psychotherapy), and
sometimes medications can help treat process addictions and substance use disorders. Age
can influence the treatment approach as well. Age does play a role in addictions, typically
with adolescents, young adults, and older adults. Addictions and substance use among
adolescents and young adults have been a problem for decades. Addiction counselors will
have a hard time treating adolescents, under the age of 18, due to parental consent and
confidentiality. Most adolescents that end up in drug rehab centers are because of peer
pressure. Researchers found that majority of the adolescent users were aware of the
potential negative effects of substances, but initiate substances out of peer influence and
curiosity (Gopiram & Kishore, 2014)
Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. (Ed.). (2019).
Foundations of addictions counseling
(4th ed.).
Pearson ISBN-13: 9780135166932
Gopiram, P., & Kishore, M. (2014). Psychosocial Attributes of Substance Abuse Among
Adolescents and Young Adults: A Comparative Study of Users and Non-users. Indian Journal
of Psychological Medicine, 36 (1), 58-61.
https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.4103/0253-
7176.127252
