Risk Factors Flashcards
Genetic vulnerability
Inherit a predisposition. Interaction of genes and environment. Won’t become addicted without exposure.
Genetic - D2
Genetically determined amount of D2 receptors. Fewer leads to issues experiencing pleasure from everyday, compensate with addictive substances or risky behaviors
Genetic - metabolism
Some break down substances faster than other more susceptible as may need more to feel same effect. Metabolic rate inherited.
Pianezza (1998)
People who lacked enzyme to metabolize nicotine properly (CYP2A6), less likely to smoke compared to those with functioning enzyme. CYP2A6 is genetically determined.
Kendler et al (2012)
National Swedish adoption study, adults adopted with biologically related addicts more likely to be addicted later compared to control group. Higher validity to genetic risk.
Correlational research
Cannot establish cause and effect, can only show link and not what came first. Lacks internal validity as cannot conclude what makes someone more at risk.
Define stress
State of physical and psychological arousal, individual believes they cannot cope with perceived threat
Stress as a risk
May turn to substances or behaviors in order to self medicate. Chronic stress and traumatic events in childhood linked with risk of addiction.
Anderson and Teicher (2008)
Early experiences of severe stress, damaging and can effect vulnerability to later stress. Future stress can trigger this - more likely to self-medicate.
Personality
Addictive personality: anti-social personality = high vulnerability as behavior or substance offers relief.
Addictive personality traits (Eysenck)
Neuroticism- high anxiety, low self-efficacy
Psychoticism- aggressive, impulsive and sometimes detached. Mayb engage in risk taking behavior
Eysenck and Gossops sample?
221 addicts
310 non-addicts
Eysenck’s study
Used persobality questionnaire, found high levels of psychoticism and neuroticism in addicts compared to CG. Supports role of personality + validity.
Family influences - approval
Parents show a positive attitude towards particular addictive substance/behavior
Makes more vulnerable to addiction.
Livingstone wet Al
Final year high school students who were allowed to drink by their parents were significantly more likely to drink excessively at college.