Alcohol: Learning Approach

Question 1

What is the initiation of Alcohol in the Cognitive Approach?

Answer 1

Indirect / direct positive reinforcement occurs as the alcohol activates the brain’s dopamine reward system.

The same happens for negative reinforcement as is relieves anxiety, so you’ll keep drinking to keep it gone.

Question 2

What is the maintenance of Alcohol in the Cognitive Approach?

Answer 2

Positive and Negative reinforcement returns as it provides ongoing rewards which keep rewarding you. Drinking however now must be maintained to prevent withdrawal symptoms such as sweating and trembling.

Question 3

What is the relapse of Alcohol in the Cognitive Approach?

Answer 3

Unpleasant withdrawal symptoms begin, and can be reduced if alcohol I drank again. Creates a new stress, and therefore a reason to keep drinking.

Question 4

What is the strength?

Answer 4

Has created treatment options such as CERP which confronts drinkers with the negative consequences they should avoid.

Shows how understanding the processes can create successful treatments.

Question 5

What is the weakness?

Answer 5

OC cannot explain “use to abuse”.

Few drinkers don’t get withdrawal, making it hard to explain if the effects are positive or negative.

Suggests there are different factors such as genes.