Addictive Behavior Analysis

Addictive behaviors like alcohol consumption pose a significant challenge to our understanding of the process of change. Addicted individuals are hard to reach and engage. Often, they are not convinced of the presence of the problem or the need to change. Psychological science has made significant progress exploring the role of motivation in recovery from substance abuse and dependence over the past 20 years. Although recovery is complicated by physiological and psychological dependence the intentions and motivation of the abuser are a critical part of this process. Motivation for change plays an important part in the process of recognizing the need for change, seeking treatment, and achieving successful sustained change. Behavior change occurs, for example, when individuals quit
drinking. It is understood as a process that unfolds over time and involves progress through a series of stages: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Precontemplation: At this stage, you have no conscious intention of making a change, whether through lack of awareness or information.
To move past precontemplation, you must sense that the unhealthy behavior is at odds with important personal goals. Contemplation: In this stage, you are aware that the behavior is a problem and are considering doing something about it, but you still aren't committed to taking any action. Health educators use several techniques to help people unstick themselves and move on to the next stage. One is to make a list of the pros and cons of making a change, then examine the barriers the "cons" and think about ways to overcome them. Preparation: At this stage, you know you must change, believe you can, and are making plans to change soon; say, next month. If you're preparing to cut down on alcohol, for example, be aware of situations that provoke unhealthy drinking, and plan ways around them. At the same time, create a realistic action plan with achievable goals. Action: At this stage, you've changed and you've begun to experience the challenges of life without the old behavior. You'll need to practice the alternatives you identified during the preparation
stage. At this stage, it's important to be clear about your motivation; if necessary, write down your reasons for making the change and read them every day. Engage in "self-talk" to bolster your resolve. Get support. Let others know you're making a change. Maintenance: Once you've practiced the new behavior change for at least six months, you're in the maintenance stage. Now you're working to prevent relapse and integrate the change into your life. That may require other changes, especially avoiding situations or triggers associated with the old habit. It can be tough, especially if it means steering clear of certain activities or friends while you work to fully assimilate your new, healthier habit.