Defining Addiction
Objective: To deepen understanding of addiction by exploring its definition and characteristics.
Instructions:
1. Read the following scenario.
2. Identify the key elements that define addiction based on the scenario.
3. Reflect on how these elements relate to the broader definition of addiction.
Scenario: Sarah is a 28-year-old professional who enjoys socializing with friends. Over the past year, Sarah has noticed that she increasingly relies on alcohol to cope with stress at work. She finds herself craving alcohol more frequently and often drinks alone to relax after a long day. Sarah has tried to cut back on her drinking but finds it difficult to resist the urge to drink, especially when she feels anxious or overwhelmed.
Key Elements of Addiction in the Scenario:
1. Dependence on a substance (alcohol) to cope with stress and emotions.
2. Increased tolerance, as Sarah finds herself needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect.
3. Failed attempts to cut back or control alcohol consumption.
4. Negative consequences on Sarah’s personal and professional life, indicated by drinking alone and using alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Reflection Questions:
1. How does Sarah’s behavior align with the definition of addiction?
2. What are the similarities and differences between Sarah’s situation and other forms of addiction?
3. How might Sarah’s story help you understand addiction in a broader context?
xtraCoach Example
Based on the scenario, Sarah’s behavior meets the criteria for addiction as it involves compulsive use of alcohol despite negative consequences and unsuccessful attempts to cut back. This aligns with the broader definition of addiction, which is characterized by the inability to control or stop the use of a substance or engagement in a behavior despite harmful consequences.
Sarah’s story illustrates how addiction can manifest in different forms but shares common features such as dependence, tolerance, and unsuccessful efforts to quit.
