Cultural and Environmental Models
Environmental and cultural influences can be significant in promoting the use of particular substances within specific populations.
Example – Culture
Australia has high rates of alcohol-related conditions. It is suggested that this is a result of Australia’s ‘pub culture’ that normalises alcohol as central to socialisation and community life. Evidence for this influence is also obvious in the increased alcohol in immigrant populations after settling in Australia.
Impact of racism, social class and poverty
Substance use is most prevalent and most devastating in populations characterised by poverty, racism, and lack of educational and occupational opportunities. Many researchers conclude that the prevalence of addiction within impoverished communities cannot be addressed without first tackling these wider social issues.
It should be noted, however, that higher socioeconomic status has also been associated with increased substance use, and thus affluence and opportunity do not necessarily immunise a person against addiction (Cavaiola, 2009).
References
Cavaiola, A.A. (2009). Psychological models of addiction. In N.A. Roget & G.L. Fisher (Eds.), Encyclopaedia of Substance Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.
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