COUC 691 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY Theoretical Models and Approaches 2025.docx

MODELS AND APPROACHES 1

Theoretical Models and Approaches

Charity Morton

School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University

Theoretical Models and Approaches

Addiction is complex, and treating it is not a universal approach. Research shows

different models that display what contributes to substance use. Because different models

explain the cause of substance use disorders, counselors need to be aware of the different

models and utilize a multimodal perspective to understand better and provide the best care

some criticism due to it often allowing the individual to avoid responsibility for their substance

use (Dumont, 2025). Relating it to diabetes or asthma, the disease model of addiction views

addiction as a chronic brain disease with a change in brain structure that leads the individual to

engage in continuous substance use even though there may be negative consequences, rather

than viewing it as a lack of self-control or willpower (Heilig et al., 2021). With more research

done in neuroscience, drugs affect the brain and alter certain areas such as the basal ganglia,

amygdala, and the prefrontal cortex. This research showed how substances affect the reward

system, motivation, and executive function. Additionally, trauma, family history of use, and

stressful environments can affect an individual's likelihood of having an addiction.

Looking at the disease model with a biblical framework, due to the Fall, sin entered the

made in His image, which addiction often destroys.

This model provides an explanation of addiction that reduces shame and stigma in

individuals. Instead of viewing it as a moral failure, others view it as a medical condition, similar

to diabetes, and in doing so, individuals are encouraged to seek the help they need and deserve

without judgment or shame. This model also explains how continuous use affects the brain's

reward system and leads to compulsive drug use due to cravings and withdrawal, despite

negative consequences, and affects the brain's ability to manage anxieties and make decisions

(Heilig et al., 2021). This model also provides an understanding that treatment in the form of

and provides an empathetic approach to helping individuals recover.

Biological Model

increased drinking, due to perceived higher tolerance. Additionally, genetics plays a role in

addiction (Hatoum et al., 2021). This model differs from the genetic model because it includes

all biological factors, not just genetics. This broader model includes adolescent vulnerability due

to adolescents' developing brain regions that leave them more susceptible to substance use.

Looking at the biological model from a biblical perspective, because of the first sin, sin

marred the perfect world God created, leaving the irreparable pattern of sin, brokenness, and

separation from God. This model highlights that sin affected both the spiritual aspect and

separation from God. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 shares how bodies are temples and should be

honored (English Standard Version Bible, 2001/2016). With that, Psalm 139:13 highlights that

God made each individual different and provides readers with hope that, despite the biological

not just weak willpower, but instead, has its roots in the brain and body.

Social Learning Model

to develop a substance use disorder based on how modeling and imitation affect an individual.

With this model, addiction is viewed as a biopsychosocial disorder through various dimensions

to understand what causes the individual to start using (Smith, 2021).

The social learning model of addiction highlights biblical principles, and 1 Corinthians

15:33 shares the importance of being surrounded by individuals who will model Christian

principles (English Standard Version Bible, 2001/2016). Individuals will likely use substances if

that is considered normal in their environment and upbringing. By changing environments and

social circles, it becomes easier to resist peer pressure and replace negative patterns in

behavior. The Bible provides many perspectives on the importance of being surrounded by

good, godly friends and having a supportive support system that aids in encouraging recovery.

familial patterns and social pressures that may affect the cycle of addiction (Smith, 2021). This

model provides an empathetic approach and emphasizes harm reduction, the prioritization of a

healthy support network, and an understanding that an individual's upbringing affects their

chances of addiction. This model provides a biopsychosocial outlook on substance use and, by

is aware of how to prevent addiction (Crépault et al., 2023). Naloxone and syringe exchange are

two common harm reduction interventions that aid individuals who use substances to use safely

(Dumont, 2025). The goal of this model is to provide awareness of substance use that is bigger

than the individual, but instead widens it to the societal level. It highlights the importance of

individuals safely using substances rather than abstaining. Instead of putting all the blame on

the individual, it provides a shared responsibility for preventative efforts.

where individuals feel they can thrive. The Bible further explains in Galatians 6:2 the importance

of leaning on others to help them with their troubles (English Standard Version Bible,

2001/2016). In Micah 6:8, the emphasis is to be kind and be merciful, ensuring the community

This model provides a powerful explanation of addiction because it incorporates the

community into the individual's responsibility of either lowering their substance use or

achieving abstinence. This model utilizes the understanding that the community can play a role

in supporting individuals with substance use (Crépault et al., 2023). By increasing community

education, utilizing harm reduction interventions, and encouraging individuals to use safely, the

public health model helps support individuals who use substances and helps create a

community that fosters recovery and lowers the likelihood of addiction.

Addiction is an intricate issue that many individuals around the world struggle with, and

looking at it through multiple models provides a better understanding of each individual and a

chance to create an individualized treatment plan. The disease model provides an empathetic

understanding that it is a brain disease, the biological model looks at the role of physical and

importance of awareness. Each of these models provides an empathetic approach to

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103958

Dumont, K. (2025). In His image: Addiction counseling through a biblical worldview. Kendall

Hunt. https://online.vitalsource.com/reader/books/9798385176045/epubcfi/

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Hatoum, A. S., Johnson, E. C., Colbert, S. M. C., Polimanti, R., Zhou, H., Walters, R. K., Gelernter,

J., Edenberg, H. J., Bogdan, R., & Agrawal, A. (2021). The addiction risk factor: A unitary

genetic vulnerability characterizes substance use disorders and their associations with

common correlates. Neuropsychopharmacology, 47, 1739–1745.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01209-w

Heilig, M., MacKillop, J., Martinez, D., Rehm, J., Leggio, L., & Vanderschuren, L. J. M. J. (2021).