The behavioral model of addiction revolves around the idea of behaviors and actions that triggers the reward circuit of the brain. Here, the brain responds to situations with a sense of delight or utter happiness. This behavior or the response continues to be the same in similar situations. This means the brain feels a sense of happiness whenever exposed to addictive substances.
This behavioral model of addiction is used to learn more about the brain’s response to different kinds of addictions and how can they be treated.
The Reward Circuit of the Brain
The reward circuit of the brain, as the name suggests, rewards the individual with happiness after doing a certain activity. The type of activity can be anything like eating favorite foods or listening to a favorite song. Meeting certain people also triggers the reward circuit of the brain.
However, in the case of addiction, this reward circuit is disrupted. This means the brain now needs only those chemicals to feel the same pleasure that was once acquired by healthy substances.
Different Models of Behavioral Addiction
Addiction can be explained using the different models mentioned below:
- Moral model
This is an outdated model to explain addiction as a moral failure and weakness. Unfortunately, there are still a few rehabs that rely on this model to treat addiction.
- Disease model
Addiction is referred to as a chronic disease by this model. Though this model stands true on certain levels, it is still not safe to call addiction just a disease. Multiple reasons lead people towards addiction and abstinence is not the only key to recovery.
- Socio-cultural model
Socio-cultural deprivation and discrimination are common among certain minorities. This becomes one of the reasons behind addiction according to this model. Thus, the treatment as per the model involves a strategy of economic equality.
- Psycho-dynamic model
This model of addiction suggests that addiction is a result of past traumas and mental illnesses. Even the statistics prove this model to be true. Thus, the treatment involves overcoming past traumas and mental illnesses.
The psycho-dynamic model of addiction is followed by various rehab centers to treat addiction and has been proven effective. Skyward Treatment in Houston, Texas also follows the same model for treating addiction and has saved several lives to date. You too can reach out to us for any help regarding addiction treatment.