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If you mean the mechanism, substance abuse involves a path of neurons in the brain. In simple terms it is known as the reward pathway and scientifically known as the NAC ( nucleus accumbens ) pathway or " positive reinforcement" pathway.Activation of this circuit of neurons will cause positive reinforcement. (Positive reinforcement is when a stimulus will increase a particular behavior e.g winning money in a jackpot will make a person play it again repeatedly ). The abused substance is responsible for activating this circuitry, hence repeated behavior i.e taking the substance again and again.

Note: The NAC pathway is normally activated by a variety of stimuli as well . Positive reinforcement is also normally responsible for producing adaptive behavior. ( Love is a good example ).

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11y ago
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1w ago
  1. Disease model: Substance abuse is viewed as a chronic, relapsing medical condition caused by biological and genetic factors.
  2. Social learning theory: Substance abuse is seen as a learned behavior influenced by environmental factors and social interactions.
  3. Self-medication theory: Substance abuse is a way for individuals to cope with underlying mental health issues or emotional distress.
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Q: What are the theories of substance abuse?
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