Addiction: A Human Experience fosters a greater awareness of those who develop substance abuse problems and the treatment of these individuals. The book provides a basic overview of the addiction process, with a special focus on what the experience is like for the addicted person.
The book focuses on theories concerning why people become addicted, the role of counselors, how addiction affects thinking, the role of families when a member becomes addicted, and the recovery and relapse processes. The material also addresses relationships, spirituality, and co-occurring disorders, as well as harm reduction and relapse prevention. Numerous case examples serve to illustrate real-world experiences with addiction and the recovery process. Specific topics include:
Twelve Step Sober Support Groups
Temptation, and How to Fight It
Gorski's Relapse Process
Romantic Relationships in Early Recovery
Addiction as a Family Disease
Process Addictions
Designed to be a supplement to standard psychology textbooks addressing substance abuse, Addiction: A Human Experience gives readers a deeper understanding of—and compassion for—those seeking treatment for their addiction.