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Essay on Social Aspect of Substance Abuse

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Addiction is a difficult disease that involves several different factors including biological, psychological and sociological aspects. Anderson (1997) states that substance use refers generally to the ingestion of illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, PCP, amphetamines, etc. The use of illicit drugs, such as alcohol and nicotine, are less frequently included in this definition, despite their widespread use and undisputed potential for harm. Substance abuse, however, is a more value-laden term which implies substance use, probably over time, which is somehow detrimental or harmful. Thus, substance use need not constitute substance abuse, although they often coexist. Wormer, Davis (2010) indicates…show more content…
This can be used as the stepping stone to better understanding the undertaking that the counselor will have to overcome. The social aspect is critical for a number of reasons. One reason is that as the foundation of the disability rights and independent living movement, the individual control has become a major issue. People with alcohol and drug addictions know their situations best and given the proper resources can make the best decisions about they need.

The individual control, however, has been compromised in those situations in which people cannot make the best decision for themselves. In these cases, parents, and relatives have to step in and assume the responsibility. In some situations a medical or clinician has to assume the responsibility concerning the needs to the individual with the alcohol and drug addictions.
The client has to understand that enabling is inherent part of alcohol and drug addictions. The family members that are constantly enabling the client are causing severe problems also. Sociocultural Factors
Wormer, Davis (2010) states social/economic and cultural factors are a potent force in the development of alcohol and drug misuse, the ability to get and receive help, and the availability of supports for a recovery process. No culture is free from alcohol and drug addiction it is a disease that affects all cultures. In the African American
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