PSYCH 650 Psychopathology Week 4 Discussion - Biopsychosocial Model of Addiction and Substance res

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Jan 9, 2024

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Valencia Walker  PSYCH/650: Psychopathology Week 4 Discussion - Biopsychosocial Model of Addiction and Substance Instructor January 4, 2024 Greetings, Review Chapter 18 of the text and the following article from the University Library: “The biopsychosocial model of addiction and substance use disorder.” Evaluate the interactive elements of the biopsychosocial model as they apply to an alcohol use disorder. Discuss what you believe are the current best practices to treat alcohol use disorder from a biopsychosocial perspective. Provide support from the article. In your opinion, do you believe it is ethical to mandate individuals with an alcohol use disorder to attend therapy and take medications designed to curb cravings or make them violently ill if they drink alcohol? Why or why not? Understanding addiction and substance use disorder requires a comprehensive perspective that considers biological, psychological, and social factors. Chapter 18 of our text and the article titled "The Biopsychosocial Model of Addiction and Substance Use Disorder" by Gilmore (2021) provide valuable insights into the interactive elements of the biopsychosocial model. In this discussion, we will evaluate these elements concerning alcohol use disorder,
explore current best practices for treatment, and deliberate on the ethical implications of mandating therapy and medications for individuals with alcohol use disorder. Biopsychosocial Model and Alcohol Use Disorder: The biopsychosocial model posits that biological, psychological, and social factors interact to influence health and illness. In the context of alcohol use disorder, these elements manifest in various ways. Biological factors involve genetic predispositions, neurochemical imbalances, and physical health. Psychological factors include cognitive patterns, emotional states, and mental health, while social factors affect environmental influences, societal norms, and interpersonal relationships (Gilmore, 2021). Interactive Elements in Alcohol Use Disorder: The interactive elements of the biopsychosocial model can be observed in the complexity of alcohol use disorder. Genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility, psychological factors like stress or trauma may trigger alcohol consumption, and social factors such as peer influence can contribute to the development and perpetuation of the disorder. Understanding these interconnections is crucial for effective intervention and treatment (Gilmore, 2021). Best Practices for Treatment: Current best practices for treating alcohol use disorder emphasize a biopsychosocial perspective. Combining pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and social support, integrative approaches have shown promising outcomes. According to Beidel and Frueh (2018), evidence-based treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and support groups have demonstrated effectiveness in addressing the multiple dimensions of alcohol use disorder.
CBT helps individuals identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with alcohol use, while MAT involves medications like naltrexone or acamprosate to reduce cravings or induce aversion to alcohol. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, provide social support and a sense of community, addressing the social aspect of the biopsychosocial model (Beidel & Frueh, 2018). Ethical Considerations in Mandating Therapy and Medications: The question of mandating therapy and medications for individuals with alcohol use disorder raises ethical considerations. On one hand, mandating treatment may be seen as a way to protect individuals from the harm associated with alcohol use and to safeguard public safety. On the other hand, it raises concerns about autonomy and individual rights. The article "Ethical problems. Psychiatric diagnosis: Dealing in half-truths" (2002) highlights the ethical complexities surrounding psychiatric diagnoses. Mandating therapy and medications may be ethically justifiable if the individual poses a significant risk to themselves or others. However, it is crucial to balance this with respect for individual autonomy and the potential for coercion in the treatment process (Robertson & Walter, 2007). In conclusion, the biopsychosocial model offers a comprehensive framework for understanding alcohol use disorder. Best practices for treatment involve an integrated approach that addresses biological, psychological, and social aspects. Ethical considerations in mandating therapy and medications require a delicate balance between protecting individuals and respecting their autonomy. As we continue to explore and refine our understanding of addiction, it is essential to approach these complex issues with sensitivity and a commitment to evidence-based, ethical practice.
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