Introduction - Weeks 4-6 - Distress Tolerance - Flashcard set 7 (Version 2)
What is the difference between a clean mind and an addict’s mind?
A clean mind is unaware of the dangers of relapse, while an addict’s mind is ruled by addiction and characterized by behaviors such as lying and stealing.
What are apparently irrelevant behaviors, and how are they related to addiction?
Apparently irrelevant behaviors are actions that take one closer to engaging in addictive behavior and are usually based on denial or delusion.
What is the immediate reinforcement of emotional highs or relief from addictive behavior, and how does it contribute to maintaining addiction?
Immediate reinforcement of emotional highs or relief from addictive behavior is stronger than delayed aversive consequences, which is why addiction is maintained.
How does addiction impact other activities in one’s life?
As addictive behavior increases, other activities decrease, leading to isolation.
What are some strategies for maintaining abstinence from addictive behaviors?
Strategies include identifying and utilizing reinforcers for abstaining from the addictive behavior, depriving oneself of certain items and rewarding oneself for each day of abstinence, and committing to a specific number of days of abstinence to try it out.
What is urge surfing, and how can it help in maintaining abstinence from addictive behaviors?
Urge surfing is a form of mindfulness that involves observing and describing urges without reacting to them. It helps the brain learn that it’s possible to experience an urge without acting on it.
How does adaptive denial work, and what is an example of it?
Adaptive denial involves convincing oneself that the addictive behavior is not a possibility. An example is filling a jar with dimes and putting it near you. When you have a craving, take one out and put it in another jar.
What is the importance of community reinforcement in maintaining abstinence and preventing relapse?
Community reinforcement is important in providing support and accountability for maintaining abstinence and preventing relapse.
How do the strategies for maintaining abstinence aim to reduce the power of addiction cravings and promote abstinence?
The strategies involve identifying and utilizing reinforcers for abstinence, depriving oneself of certain items, committing to abstinence for a specific number of days, burning bridges to potential triggers, building new mental images and smells, and practicing urge surfing and adaptive denial.
Why should one not replace the craving for one addictive behavior with another or a destructive behavior?
Replacing one addictive behavior with another or a destructive behavior can lead to a cycle of addiction and harm rather than promoting abstinence.
Why is addiction as rebellion considered ineffective?
Addiction as rebellion is ineffective because it does not lead to a higher quality of life.
What is alternate rebellion and why is it important to practice it?
Alternate rebellion means finding a nondestructive behavior to substitute for addiction. It is important to practice it because it satisfies the desire to rebel without blocking important goals and can lead to a higher quality of life.
