Question

There are many factors in the drug laws that influence addiction. Use the information you gained in life and DISCUSS 4 different insights.

Answer 1

Drugs are chemical compounds that change the functioning of biological system. When people consume consciousness-altering drugs on a regular basis they often develop dependence – they come to need the drug and cannot function without it. Two types of dependence exist. One psychological dependence, occurs when the need for the drug is based on organic factors such as changes in metabolism. This type of dependence is what is usually meant by the term drug addiction.

People can also develop psychological dependence, in which they experience strong desire to continue using the drugs when go, physiologically, their bodies do not need it. As we see several psychological mechanisms probably contribute to such dependence. Physiological and psychological dependence often occur together and magnify individual's cravings for the dependence on specific drugs.

Perspective suggests that drug abuse can be understood largely in terms of social factors. According to this view, individuals, especially adolescents and young adults, use consciousness dress altering drugs because it is the 'in' things to do. Their friends use these drugs, and they believe that if they do too, this will enhance their social image.

The distinction between automatic and controlled behavior forms the basis for yet another perspective on drug abuse. According to this view, the cognitive system controlling many aspects of obtaining and consuming various drugs may soon be taken the character of automatic processes. To the extent that this occurs, drug use becomes quick and relatively effortless, occurs without conscious intention is difficult to inhibit, and may even take place in the absence of conscious awareness.