For Prof Double R ONLY

One of the challenges we face as counselors is developing our theoretical model or approach to counseling. Given the complexity and unique characteristics of each client, we know that it is impossible to have a single theory or approach that explains all human behavior. Likewise, as you read through the various etiological models or explanations of addiction, the tendency is ask “Which one is the correct model?” The answer is not so simple. All of these models are helpful and provide important information for counselors beginning their studies in addiction counseling, but no single model adequately explains why some individuals become addicted to a substance and others do not . So which is the correct one? The answer is “all of the above” as addiction is too complex to try to use one approach to explain addiction when working with a client.

Therefore, it is important to recognize that addiction is not caused by a single factor, which then requires us to integrate aspects of the various models to understand and develop treatment options for clients. For example, while there may be similarities in all addicted individuals, the etiology and motivation for the use of drugs varies from person to person. For some individuals, there may be a genetic predisposition or a physiological reason for use and later addiction to a drug. For others, addiction may be a result of a disruption in their personal development, without a known genetic predisposition or physiological dysfunction. Thus, we have to consider each model, and evaluate how it does or does not explain an aspect of the client’s addiction.

To help you in this process, you will review the 8 distinct classification of models to explain addiction found in the textbook (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016, pp. 6–14):

The Moral Model The Public Health Model

Psychological Models The Developmental Model

Family Models Biological Models

The Disease Model Sociocultural Models

For this assignment, you will write a 6-page paper (no abstract; Textbook references) where you will begin to take a multi-causal approach. As you read each model, think about the different stories you heard when you attended the Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Al-Anon meetings. You will use these stories to complete the 2 parts to this assignment.

Part I: Select four (4) models from the above 8 categories. Then, describe 1 story you heard in a meeting that could be used as an example for each model you selected. This would include at least 2 paragraphs for each selected model: 1) provide the details of the story, and 2) give the specific reasons that you felt this model provides a good explanation of the client’s addiction. Note: you will have a total of four stories, one for each selected model.

Part 2: You will describe one (1) member’s story. Then explain how at least 2 different models could be used to evaluate that member’s story. For example, one AA member discussed how addiction “runs in his/her family” and the impact of addiction on his life and family. You may find that portion of his/her story can be explained using one or more of the Family Models, while other parts are also explained using Disease Models and Biological Models. Make sure that you clearly describe what was it about his/her story that caused you to consider using the two models you selected to help explain the person’s addiction.