Singling out the specific
susceptibilities of drug addiction is a tricky process, especially when
physical attributes are involved. Most people do not want to learn that an
inherent part of their body is a vulnerable aspect of their overall well-being.
However, gathering data on the unique strengths and weaknesses of various
groups is an important part of improving collective health. If a person is
given the knowledge of his or her possible setbacks, that person can better
prevent addictive tendencies from developing.
Over the last 50 years, society has responded and adapted to a number of new drug trends and epidemics. As a result, research in the addiction field has aimed to decipher novel ways of identifying the signs of addiction before it progresses to more difficult stages. In 1983, psychology professor Alan R. Lang at Florida State University narrowed down some essential characteristics of a concept he has classified as the “addictive personality” (Lang 1983). The criteria consist of:
- Lacking impulse control, difficulty delaying gratification, having an antisocial personality and a heightened need for sensation seeking
- Possessing a high value of standing out from the crowd in addition to a low desire of being valued by mass society
- Experiencing feelings of social alienation and an inclination for deviant behavior
- Undergoing excessive levels of stress, especially between major periods of life. These life-defining transitions are often associated with the most severe drug and alcohol problems
Over the years, layers of new
research have added on to this foundation of findings. With advanced and finely
detailed tools for observation, many researchers have successfully isolated the
genes that have an influence on addictive pathologies. A study in 2009 identified
specific neuronal receptors like CHRNB2 and CHRNA5 that play active roles in
the onset of different dependencies, such as with alcohol and cocaine (Li &
Burmeister 2009).
One of the newest breakthroughs has
been a 2015 study that uncovered a significant association between eye color
and alcohol addiction (Sulovari et. al. 2015). Researchers found that people
with blue and light-colored eyes demonstrate a consistently higher likelihood
to consume more drinks than populations with darker eyes. While decades of
comprehensive and integrative psychological research have shown various
environmental factors lead to addictive diseases, a biological element
contributes to it as well.
Even today, the National Institute
on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has compiled data that showcase the big picture
of addiction for various groups of ethnicity.\ (Chartier & Caetano). While
the finer details still need to be uncovered, treatment providers must be aware
of the unique circumstances affecting each client they admit. Luckily, the 24/7
Recovery Helpline is a resource that connects individuals with the most proven
drug addiction rehab centers in their area. If you or a loved one needs help
with an addictive problem, please contact an admissions consultant online or
call 855-441-4405.
