anyone heard about the rat park Study done in the 1970s I think. basically, It suggested that addiction was not biological or neurochemical, but rather a deficiency of certain environmental needs that people then seek from drugs. this is because in the study, caged rats, given a choice between cocaine or heroin laced water and pure water would always choose the drug solution. then, when their environment was enriched with novel objects, Other friendly rodents and opposite sex partners they apparently didn’t bother with the drugs anymore. it sounds good on paper, and there is a clear link between socioeconomic deprivation and addiction risk. unfortunately, it’s not so simple with humans. A substance users, i’m sure we all use our drugs of choice recreationally, even when all our basic needs are satisfied. maybe I’m pretty drug naive, only ever used caffeine and nicotine. nicotine is probably the closest to an illegal or at least highly addictive drug. for example, I find it extremely rewarding and reinforcing and it helps me to cope with stress and fight procrastination. in my experience, nicotine certainly feels like welcome support when I’m stressed, but once that stressor is over I don’t have an ounce of desire to quit nicotine. In fact, nicotine feels even better when I’m not stressed. maybe my circumstances are different given that pure tobacco free, nicotine has no major social consequences, but in away, I am living as an opportunistic drug user who would use the substance every day if I had a chance. this is because I’m blind and rely on my family to help make purchases, since I’m not a smoker, I don’t think they would approve me trying to buy a 150 MG nicotine pouch whether that be for pleasure or to get through the horrors of work.
I do think mindset plays a huge role in addiction susceptibility. For example, some people have an innate dislike of being under the influence or otherwise having their desires controlled by a substance, even if that be minor and harmless. Of course, no one wants a heroin addiction that will drive them to steal their families money, but some people are simply revolted by the idea that’s a mild substance could cause them to want it repeatedly and they might fall for its cravings. i’m the complete opposite, I have no qualms being addicted to a substance, and taking it all my life, so long as it doesn’t destroy my morals or screw up my brain health.
I think one of my brothers will be someone possibly protected against addiction to certain things, both for biological and psychological reasons. in terms of biology, he has an extremely negative reaction to nicotine, becoming very dizzy and almost vomiting. psychologically, he’s always had a negative outlook on brain altering substances, especially those people claim have functional properties like nicotine, amphetamine and deprenyl. he often says things like “why would you want to put something in your body“,“why would you let a substance control you“,“why can’t you be a man and just get through work”.
Normally, I wouldn’t be able to get on with anyone like that, but my brother is different. Despite disagreeing, he’s willing to listen to my arguments. he also admits his own flaws and weaknesses and does not pretend to be someone he is not.