Biopsychosocial Model of Addiction

Now, let’s take a closer look at the biopsychosocial model of addiction. According to Borrell-Carrio (2004) in The Biopsychological model 25 years later, “biological, genetic, personality, psychological, cognitive, social, cultural and environmental factors” are the main cause of the addiction disorder. The model comes to show that the body and the mind act interpersonally and thus create the foundation of the disease. However, the suggested biological predisposition doesn’t affect the personal choice that one has before turning into the illegal substances. This genetic condition only plays a major role into increasing the risk of addicting and not necessarily inheriting the full terms of the disease.

In the Scripture there aren’t any direct statements about the biopsychological model of addiction but it does talk about temptation, sins and how to turn away from the evil. A very relevant citation from it would come from 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’” Another reference suitable to describe how much He is able to love and protects us from all evil if we don’t slip into the temptation could be found in James 1:12-15: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil, and himself tempts no one.” The people who are facing an addiction have to learn and accept that God still loves them in times of trial. Endurance is not something we get born with but a skill we develop throughout our entire existence. James reminds the readers not to have any doubt or to stop relying on Him when they are suffering and feeling lost. Only He is able to heal us and show us which way to go if we decide to turn away from the sin.

Similar to most existing diseases, addiction can be treated and cured as long as the patients are willing to get help. The medical history has seen many addicts who manage to recover and never look back to the previous temptations. And while everywhere around us it is so popular to talk about much needed integration and acceptance, in today’s society some issues still remain heavily stigmatized. A great first step would be a decision to understand the root of the biopsychosocial problem itself and to acquire additional information about the numerous existing options for a treatment. If only we are willing to take that step. 

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