There is no single prerequisite or contributing factor that will signal if someone will become an addict. It takes a group of influencing factors working together (in most instances) to create the addicted person and the more of these prerequisites a person has the greater the chance that addiction becomes an issue for them.
A few examples of these contributing factors are:
- The Individual’s Biology. Addiction is a disease and therefore the genes someone is born with will make up for about half of their possible predisposition to becoming an addict. Other factors include a person’s gender, ethnicity, and the possible presence of some form of mental disorder may also increase risk for drug use and addiction.
- The Individual’s Environment. One’s environment can include a whole host of different influences, from a person’s family and friends to their economic status and general quality of life. Other contributors such as peer pressure, physical and sexual abuse, early exposure to drugs, stress, and lack of parental guidance can greatly affect a person’s likelihood of drug use and addiction.
- The Individual’s Development. Genetic and environmental factors interact with critical developmental stages in a person’s life to affect addiction risk. Although taking drugs at any age can lead to addiction, the earlier that drug use begins, the more likely it will progress to addiction. This is particularly problematic for teens. Because areas in their brains that control decision-making, judgment, and self-control are still developing, teens may be especially prone to risky behaviors, including trying drugs.
These are only a few of the contributing factors that can lead to drug addiction. If you or a loved one need help with addiction call us today.
