Addiction Definition and Biblical Perspective

Study Notes

Definition of Addiction

A chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences
Involves complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual's life experiences
Key characteristics:
- Tolerance: needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect
- Withdrawal: physical and mental symptoms that occur after reducing or stopping substance use
- Cravings: intense desire or urge for the substance

Psychological Perspective on Addiction

A psychological condition where an individual engages in the use of substances or in behaviors for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behavior despite detrimental consequences
Key characteristics:
- Compulsive behavior: repeatedly engaging in harmful behaviors despite awareness of negative consequences
- Loss of control: inability to control the use of the substance or behavior
- Preoccupation: spending a significant amount of time thinking about, obtaining, and recovering from the substance or behavior

Difference Between Physical Dependence and Addiction

Physical Dependence

A state of adaptation manifested by withdrawal symptoms when the substance is abruptly discontinued or the dosage is significantly reduced
Characteristics:
- Tolerance: developing a need for increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect
- Withdrawal: experiencing physical symptoms (e.g., nausea, shaking, sweating) when the substance is not used
Example: a patient taking opioids for chronic pain may develop physical dependence without being addicted

Addiction

A complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use, loss of control, and continued use despite adverse consequences
Characteristics:
- Compulsive use: continuing to use the substance despite knowing the harmful effects
- Behavioral impact: addiction often leads to significant impairments in social, occupational, and personal functioning
Example: a person using opioids recreationally despite the negative impact on their health, relationships, and responsibilities

Biblical Perspective on Addiction

Romans 7:18-19 (MSG)

Human struggle: highlights the internal struggle and human inability to overcome certain behaviors without divine help
Desire vs. action: reflects the conflict between the desire to do good and the actions that contradict that desire, akin to the cycle of addiction
Need for divine assistance: emphasizes the necessity of seeking God's help to overcome the compulsions and behaviors that one cannot control alone

Description

This quiz explores the definition of addiction from medical, psychological, and biblical perspectives. It also differentiates between physical dependence and addiction, with a focus on Romans 7:18-19 (MSG).