Tracing The Inherited Vulnerabilities of Addiction

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.