This article critically examines the brain disease model of addiction and proposes an alternative developmental-learning framework. The author argues that addiction results from neuroplastic changes similar to those seen in deeply ingrained habits, rather than a pathological disease state. By integrating neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral research, the paper highlights addiction as an outcome of self-perpetuating learning processes rather than a condition requiring medical treatment. The discussion challenges conventional medical narratives and emphasizes the role of cognitive and emotional development in understanding and overcoming addiction.
This course is based on the reading-based online article, Addiction and the Brain created by Marc Lewis in 2017.
Publication Date
Neuroethics January 11, 2017
Course Material Author
Marc Lewis
Dr. Marc Lewis is a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Toronto. He specializes in addiction research, focusing on neurodevelopment and behavioral psychology. This is his first work published in a peer-reviewed journal.
Marc Lewis authored the material only, and was not involved in creating this CE course. They are identified here for your own evaluation of the relevancy of the material this course is based on.
Kathryn Held, Psy. D associate and CADC III, is an individual therapist at Visions adolescent treatment centers. With a decade of experience in the mental health field, Kathryn specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and the OCD spectrum. Kathryn also has expertise in working with LGBTQ+ adolescents while navigating complex family systems. Her current research projects include adolescent suicide and the use of OCD art interventions in anxiety and OCD treatment. She is trained in CBT, ACT and Exposure and Response Prevention. Her empathetic and artistic approach helps support, educate, and instill agency in her clients. Prior to joining the Visions team, Kathryn worked in various treatment settings including detox, sober living, and as the Program Director of a dual diagnosis outpatient treatment center.
Recommended For
Counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists and social workers. This course is appropriate for intermediate and above levels of knowledge.
Course Objectives:
After taking this course, you should be able to:
Critically assess the limitations of the brain disease model of addiction – Understand how addiction-related brain changes align with normal learning and habit formation rather than pathology.
Analyze the role of neuroplasticity in addiction – Explore how repeated goal-directed behaviors reinforce addiction through self-perpetuating neural adaptations.
Examine the implications of a developmental-learning model of addiction – Consider alternative approaches to treatment and policy that move beyond a purely medicalized perspective.
Availability
This course is available starting Mar 6th, 2025 and expires Mar 6th, 2035
Disclosure to Learners
Disclosure of Relevant Financial Relationships
CE Learning Systems adheres to the ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited
Continuing Medical Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CE activity –
including faculty, planners, reviewers, or others ― are required to disclose all relevant financial
relationships with ineligible entities (formerly known as commercial interests).
The following relevant financial relationships have been disclosed by this activity's planners, faculty, and
the reviewer:
Planners and Reviewers
The planners of this activity have reported that they have no relevant financial relationships.
Material Authors
Any relevant financial disclosures for course material authors can be found in the article.
Course Creator
Kathryn Held – No Disclosures to report
Commercial support
There is no commercial support for this distance-learning course.
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