Alcohol: mechanisms of addiction and reinforcement.

Abstract

This chapter examines positive and negative reinforcement mechanisms which play a significant role in alcohol abuse and alcoholism. Consideration is given to the role of euphoria and anxiolytic effects of alcohol as the basis of positive reinforcement, and physical dependence and aversive consequence of drinking as the basis of negative reinforcement. The motivational significance of each of these is discussed with respect to various animal models of addiction and clinical and human research. Brain neurochemistry, neuropharmacology and genetic research data are evaluated from the perspective of reinforcement mechanisms involved with alcohol addiction.