Chemical Dependency: A Systems Approach

by C. Aaron McNeece, Diana M. DiNitto

The latest edition of this well-respected C. Aaron McNeece and Diana DiNitto presents a comprehensive look at chemical dependency, covering the most recent issues in the areas of epidemiology, etiology, substance abuse policy and treatment. Taking a systems perspective Chemical Dependency: A Systems Approach, Third Edition, presents all major theories of addiction, as well as the major physiological and psychological results of substance abuse, including fetal alcohol syndrome. Coverage of the latest developments in treatment and research incorporates the most recent findings on genetic causes of alcoholism. This edition includes an up-to-date discussion of the most recent trends in designer drugs, to account for the considerable frequency in which drug use patterns occur. In addition, the most recent policy changes at the state, federal, and international levels have been added.

Genres: Psychology

571 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1993

Reviews

[Elle]

This book provides a survey of current theories about addiction and of the evidence-based, culturally sensitive practices available to treat it. However, the text is muddy, as if the mass of information had not been understood before being written about, and it does not provide much substance about any of what it covers, limiting its practical usefulness. Evidence-based practices will constantly change, and the text cannot be blamed if the field itself lacks coherence in its theories. However, providing a slightly fleshed out index of such theories and practices is vastly overpriced at $127.

What value the text did provide lay in its thesis that chemical dependency is a cultural construct. Whether one is considered to have substance use disorder issues has everything to do with how substance use affects any individual's roles and relationships. When the text touches on this, and the importance of context, it is at its best.

[Kevin]

It's a textbook. A decent place to start.