cognitive model

= thinking
emphasises habitual ways of thinking and interpreting events which may lead to the initiation and maintenance of addiction.

MAIN ASSUMPTION:
Addictions are based on faulty thinking (of various forms) and are often illogical and irrational.

Initiation:
Before an addiction starts, there are main factors that influence the decision to do so
*personal attitude towards the behaviour - do they think it will benefit in the same way
*perception of how others view the behaviour e.g is it socially acceptable
*their perceived control over the behaviour. This is known as the theory of planned behaviour.
RATIONAL CHOICE:
~addicts are making a 'rational choice' when they engage in addictive behaviours - they weigh up the costs and benefits of a particular behaviour and then choose to continue with it. BUT they maximise the benefits and minimise the costs.
COPING:
~particularly at the initiation stage, addicts intentionally use a particular substance/behaviour as a strategy for coping with the demands of life
~feel in control of this behaviour at this stage and view it positively
~when these coping mechanisms are used excessive they may create more problems than they solve

Maintenance:
[] become psychologically dependent on the behaviour - begin to place irrational importance on it and view it as essential/necessary (mental crutch)
…