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MODELS OF ADDICTION 1
Models of Addiction:
Biological, Psychological, and Social Models of Addiction
Ursula Miles
School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University
SUBS-505: Addiction and Recovery Process
Dr. Michael Howard
September 7, 2025
MODELS OF ADDICTION 2
Models of Addiction
Addiction is a complex disorder that necessitates a similarly intricate framework for
comprehension. In his work, Concepts of Chemical Dependency, Doweiko (2019) underscores
the biopsychosocial model as the most thorough method for analyzing the causes and effects of
substance use disorders. (Doweiko, 2019) This model acknowledges the impact of biological,
psychological, and social factors in the initiation and persistence of addictive behaviors.
Doweiko(2019) further identifies a fourth dimension, conceptualizing addiction as a
disease of the human spirit. Combining the biological, psychological, social and spiritual aspects
will help elucidate addiction.
The Biological Model of Addiction
One of the three common models of addiction is the biological model. This model
focuses on abnormal drug metabolism and brain sensitivity to explain addiction (Clinton &
Scalise, 2015). A feeling of euphoria is experienced after consuming a highly addictive drug.
These kinds of drugs are provoking stimulants for the release of dopamine. Dopamine
influences motivation and the punishment and reward system. This can cause the onset of an
addiction, due to the individual continuously seeking the high feeling. Research studies show
that even though some of the physiological consequences produced by drug usage and not
necessarily the causes of dependence (Clinton and Scalise, 2015).
Treatments for this model can be delivered in four general routes. The pharmacotherapy
route is administered by a physician in efforts to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal,
(Doweiki, 2015). The second approach was developed with the attempts to lessen one’s desire
or taste to misuse drugs. Methadone or Naltrexone are common drugs used for this treatment.
Experimental vaccines encourage the immune system to fight the molecules that are found in
cocaine and methamphetamine. Lastly, Psychosocial interventions is another approach used in
addition with biological interventions to increase abstinence (Doweiko, 2105).
MODELS OF ADDICTION 3
The Psychological Model
The psychological model views addiction as a problem of emotional regulation.
Individuals in this category are coping with difficult emotions in a healthy way leading them to
rely on substances with substances (Addiction – the psychological model, 2023).
The Social Model of Addiction
The social model perspective is that relationships and the environment, such as family,
friends, economic status, and cultural norms are attributes for addiction (Doweiko, 2019). For
example, an individual is more prone to develop the desire to use substances, while other close
relationships can promote or shun drug use. Unstable employment and isolation can increase
the likelihood to use substances.
The Disease of the Human Spirit
In addition, the biopsychosocial model is naming addiction as a disease of the human
spirit (Doweiko, 2019). Individuals are attempting to fill a void with persistent substance use.
The Twelve Step program is introduced as a Recovery framework, incorporating spirituality into
its treatment plan.
Spiritual Bankruptcy and the Biblical Worldview
From a biblical viewpoint, the "disease of the human spirit" symbolizes the fractured
connection between humanity and God. Spiritual emptiness is an example of many trying to fill
a void with drugs, unhealthy relationships and successes. Sin is created to divide people and
God (Isaiah 59:2; Romans 3:23). The biopsychosocial model is incomplete without embodying
humanity's deep need for spiritual renewal. Including the Christian’s doctrines with reliable
scientific research helps cultivate an approach needed to feed the overall body, mental, social
and soul.
MODELS OF ADDICTION 4
Conclusion
The biological, psychological and social models of addiction give us a good
understanding of how chemical dependency develops and continues. The models work together
to build a complete picture which includes genetic factors and coping strategies and external
environmental factors. According to Doweiko (2019) these frameworks fail to deliver results
because they fail to understand addiction as a spiritual disease that impacts the entire human
being. The process of recovery advances from treating symptoms to achieving real change when
people deal with their spiritual void that leads to addiction. According to biblical teachings
Christ stands as the only one who can fix human spirit damage to bring complete restoration.
The most successful method to treat addiction combines scientific theories with spiritual beliefs
which handle every aspect of a person.
References
Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Cengage Learning. Holy
Bible, New International Version. (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)
Addiction-the Psychological Model. Malvern Private Australia. (2023, September 13).
https://www.malvernprivate.com.au/addiction-the-psychological-model/
