Biological commentary for explanations of addiction - Dopamine Flashcards
Describe research supporting the role of dopamine.
Volkow gave dopamine stimualting drugs to a group of volunteers. Some loved the feeling, and had fewer D2 receptors compared to those who hated it.
Some people are particularly vulnerable to added rush of dopamine enhancement, which explains why some people develop an addiciton after experimenting with drugs.
Describe the limitations of neurochemical explanations.
They neglect the possibility of determinating factors, such as social context. It is a reductionism model.
How does a neurochemical explanation help in terms of treatment?
The model regards addiction as a disease. Such an approach create sthe possibility for various pharmacological treatment methods, and is certainly more progressive than treating addicts with punishment.
Describe studies supporting the link between dopamine sensitivvity and addiction inevitably.
Experiments with monkeys showed that dopamine system can be influenced by social interactions. Animals that lost social status also lost D2 receptors. This can be applied to humans whose lives are characterised by poverty and stress.
Volkow claimed people living in engaging and stimulative surroundings are protected against addiciton. More chances for natural excitement leads to a lesser need for stimulating artificial excitement from a dopamine agnostic.
