Addiction Treatment ─ A Strengths Perspective

This text is grounded in the empowerment perspective and the harm reduction approach. Emphasis is on the biology of addiction, but there are also sections on the psychological and social components of addiction and treatment, with material on the spiritual components integrated throughout. After an overview of the nature of addiction, the section on biology covers issues such as of the impact of substance misuse on the body. One chapter is devoted to gambling and other behavioral addictions. The section on the psychology of addiction looks at addiction across the life span, helping strategies, and co-occurring mental disorders. The final section, on social aspects of addiction, considers family risks, self-help groups, race and culture issues, and public policy. Case boxes are included. An appendix lists advocacy organizations, federal agencies, and organizations devoted to prevention, research, and self-help. Van Wormer is affiliated with the University of Northern Iowa. Davis is affiliated with Eastern Washington University. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)