Moral Theory of Addiction

Moral Theory of Addiction

• Originated in the early-mid 1800s with the Temperance movement, viewing addiction as a sin, a fault in one's character, and a moral weakness.
• Users are characterized as 'misfits', 'no-hopers', or objects of pity.
• Dealers are routinely described as 'scum', 'vermin', or 'an evil menace'.

Key Assumptions of the Moral Model

• People who struggle with substance use:
  • Make poor choices
  • Lack willpower
  • Are unwilling to change their own lives
• Focuses on choice, highlighting the progression from voluntary substance use to loss of control.

Concerns with the Moral Model

• Stereotyping users and dealers
• Reluctance to seek aid
• Reduced self-esteem
• Increases self-blame, self-hate, and feelings of powerlessness
• Decreases motivation and avoids taking responsibility for change

Quote from Major Brian Matters

• "I believe addiction is a sin. I know it's a medical and psychological problem, but the Bible tells us that sin is falling short of our potential. It tells us we should not be mastered by things. It also tells us to keep the body pure as it is the temple of the Holy Spirit."

Moral Theory of Addiction

• Originated in the early-mid 1800s as part of the Temperance movement
• Views addiction as a sin, a fault in one's character, and a moral weakness
• Users are characterized as 'misfits', 'no-hopers', or objects of pity
• Dealers are described as 'scum', 'vermin', or an 'evil menace'
• Focuses on the individual's choices and lack of willpower
• Suggests that people struggling with addiction make poor choices, lack willpower, and are unwilling to change their lives
• Concerns:
  • Stereotyping and labeling individuals
  • Reluctance to seek help due to fear of judgment
  • Reduced self-esteem and increased self-blame
  • Decreased motivation and avoidance of responsibility

Quotes from Major Brian Matters

• "I believe addiction is a sin. I know it's a medical and psychological problem, but the Bible tells us that sin is falling short of our potential."
• "It tells us we should not be mastered by things. It also tells us to keep the body pure as it is the temple of the Holy Spirit."

Spiritual Model of Addiction

• Sees addiction as a disconnection from God or a Higher Power
• Suggests that overcoming addiction requires establishing a deeper connection with oneself, others, and the world
• Assumes that individuals cannot overcome addiction on their own, but rather through:
  • A Higher Power
  • A community of people in recovery
  • A spiritual awakening