3. Learning Theory for Nicotine Addiction

Question 1

what is the learning theory for nicotine?

Answer 1

A behaviourist explanation based on the mechanisms of classical and operant conditioning, such as positive and negative reinforcement.

Question 2

what part does operant conditioning play?

Answer 2

the behaviour is positively reinforced by the dopamine hypothesis in the mesolimbic pathway. Cessation of use influences negative reinforcement, due to withdrawal syndrome.

Question 3

what part does classical conditioning play?

Answer 3

the pleasurable effects are the primary reinforcer. Secondary reinforcers are associated with the primary, and also reinforce the behaviour. This is due to cue reactivity which perpetrates the addiction.

Question 4

what are the pieces of research which support learning theory? (2) (hint: 1 animal, 1 human)

Answer 4

• Levin et al: trained rats to self-administer nicotine by licking one of two water sprouts.
• Carter and Tiffany: heavy smokers susceptible to cues, shows cue reactivity

Question 5

what are the arguments against learning theory? (2)

Answer 5

• Carpenter: gender differences: women more susceptible to cues.
• only explains maintenance of addiction rather than initiation

Question 6

application to…

Answer 6

aversion therapy: Smith: AT = 52%. normal quitters = 20 - 25%