Are certain people more likely to become addicts and why?
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Mark Myers
Mark Myers received his Master of Social Work Degree from Loyola University in 1987. He has been practicing in the helping profession since 1981. He is an Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1990. Also, since 1988, he is a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor. Mr. Myers provides counseling to individuals, couples, children and adolescents for a variety of areas including: drug and alcohol abuse, parenting issues, marital issues, depression, anxiety, and anger issues. He presents workshops and consultations to mental health professionals and the community from the mental health and addictions fields. Professional Orientation His professional approach focuses on behavior and thought. Mr. Myers uses strategies to enhance problem solving skills, communication, and coping skills. According to research findings, there is a strong relationship between our thoughts and our emotions. By understanding and becoming more aware of this relationship, individuals will be able to redirect unproductive thought and behavioral patterns. Mr. Myers also encourages tapping into our own resources using handouts, readings, and therapeutic exercises. He works in partnership with individuals to change behaviors and thoughts. This approach allows individuals to continue to grow even after therapy ends. Mr. Myers has provided numerous presentations to schools, business professionals, and community members. He has offered lectures in the following areas: substance abuse, anger management, communication skills, stress management, general wellness, and steroid abuse. He has also consulted to school districts, hospitals, corporations and agencies in various capacities. Education BA: Northeastern Illinois University MSW: Loyola University Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor Licensed Clinical Social Worker Publications Exercise Addiction and Steroid Abuse. January 1990 (Hazelden Publications). Affiliations National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists National Association of Social Workers · Author has 91 answers and 193K answer views · 13y ·

There is a strong genetic link in addiction. For individuals that have a addicted family member, they are at greater risk for addiction than those who don't. Other factors that may influence a person being addicted are peer group, having another psychological disorder, taking certain prescription drugs, lack of parent involvement, age of first use, and other environmental factors.
This does not imply that individual's who experience the above, are destined to become addicted. It just places them at higher risk.
Personality traits that may increase the likely hood of addiction include: impulsivity, nonconformity, isolation, need for immediate gratification, and poor coping skills. These personality traits would be important areas to address in the recovery stage.

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