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Why do we take drugs? From the drug-reinforcement theory to a novel concept of drug instrumentalization

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 November 2011

Rainer Spanagel
Rainer Spanagel
Affiliation:
Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health (CIMH), University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany. drainer.spanagel@zi-mannheim.dewww.zi-mannheim.de
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Abstract

The drug-reinforcement theory explains why humans get engaged in drug taking behavior. This theory posits that drugs of abuse serve as biological rewards by activating the reinforcement system. Although from a psychological and neurobiological perspective this theory is extremely helpful, it does not tell us about the drug-taking motives and motivation of an individual. The definition of drug instrumentalization goals will improve our understanding of individual drug-taking profiles.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 34 , Issue 6 , December 2011 , pp. 322
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011

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