Emphasising the Central Role of Culture on Explanatory Models on Addiction - Redirecting the Dominant Discourse on Addiction

Abstract

Addiction, often labelled a disease by the medical model, remains a contested phenomenon, with some authors reducing it to a physical disorder and others critiquing this narrow view. Traditional approaches that focus solely on biological symptoms while neglecting the social factors that influence addictive behaviours are insufficient. This thesis argues for a more comprehensive framework that integrates both philosophical critique and evolutionary perspectives, aiming to better understand and address addiction. By challenging the reified concept of addiction, the thesis emphasises the importance of cultural and social influences on emotional regulation and human agency. In particular, the transformational power of culture offers a reliable strategy to address underlying issues such as anxiety, targeting core control systems and reinforcing human agency over time. The Culture-as-Interaction (CAI) framework plays a central role in this discussion, highlighting how cultural practices can support emotional regulation and improve decision-making. Culture-as-Practice (CAP) emerges as the practical outcome of CAI, demonstrating how these cultural influences can positively impact mental states, fostering connection with oneself and others. As a conscious and proactive force, culture shapes meaning-making processes in everyday life, and when harnessed effectively, can complement the medical model. This combined approach presents an innovative pathway to reduce harm and empower individuals facing addiction, emphasising that both biological and cultural perspectives are essential to achieving better outcomes in addressing addiction.