The Best Explanation of Addiction I’ve Ever Heard – Dr. Gabor Maté
Over time, the brain adapts to these excessive dopamine levels, making it harder to experience pleasure from natural rewards. This can lead to an increased need for the addictive substance or behavior to achieve the same level of satisfaction. Research suggests that genetic factors play a role in addiction susceptibility. Some people may have genes that make them more sensitive to the rewarding effects of drugs or more prone to impulsivity, which can increase the risk of addiction.
However, it’s important to remember that genetics are not deterministic. Even with a genetic predisposition, environmental factors and individual choices significantly influence the development of addiction.Many people with addictions report experiencing trauma in their lives, such as abuse, neglect, or chronic stress. These experiences can leave emotional wounds and lead to difficulties coping with negative emotions.
Addictive substances or behaviors can provide a temporary escape from these difficult emotions, offering a sense of relief, comfort, or numbness. This can reinforce the addictive pattern as the person learns to rely on the substance or behavior for self-soothing.This comprehensive model acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to addiction. It emphasizes that addiction is not a moral failing or a choice but a complex condition influenced by various factors beyond an individual’s control.