The Empirical and Theoretical Bases for an Adaptive Model of Addiction

There is substantial scientific support for an adaptive model of addiction. Research reviewed in this article supports the adaptive model's assertions that failure of psychosocial integration precedes addiction; that addiction serves a number of adaptive functions; that addictive behavior is not “out of control”; that drug use generally fits the predictions of coping theory; that addictions are often transitory; that the “lessor evil” assumption of the adaptive model is compatible with current theory; that addictions are often interchangeable; and that the term “adaptive” is defined precisely in the adaptive model. The extensive support for an adaptive model of addiction, in conjunction with the wealth of recent evidence against a disease model of addiction, suggests that a major reformulation of theory about drugs and addiction is underway in the scholarly community.