Models and Theories of Relapse Among Former Drug Addicts

Abstract

A number of models and theories have been applied by most scholars to explain conditions relating to the inclination to relapse. In understanding the concept of relapse behaviour, the process must be seen as not only caused by external factors, but by internal factors of the addicts themselves, which might trigger the stimulus and prompt them to reuse drugs. This covers cognitive factors involving the stress they go through, such as negative emotional issues, interpersonal conflict such as disagreements, clash of viewpoints and goals with family members, peers, and members of society, and social pressure from their environment that increases the inclination to relapse. This then causes the addict to react negatively. Without the proper skills to manage the stress, the inclination to relapse grows. In addition, external factors also can contribute to relapse behaviour, such as family environment, and social support from family, friends, and society. Based on the social control theory, relapse behaviour can occur due to imperfection in the socialisation process within a family, especially with parents, schools, and other main social control agents. In other words, tight social control from family, teachers, society and even peers can restrain someone from acting in contradiction to set and agreed to social mores. Parents must be more competent in managing child behaviour. They must prioritise emotional links, control, and monitoring of their child’s behaviour, be strict in disciplining their child, and if they find their child’s behaviour goes against values and norms, the family must correct such behaviour. Parents unable to carry out their responsibilities consistently and effectively shapes a low social control, increasing the possibility of their child’s evaluation of negative actions as something exciting and without negative consequence. The discussion on the theories and models of relapse behaviour in this paper can hopefully provide further enlighten families, friends, and members of society to help former addicts escape the problems they are facing.