Continuum of Substance Use and Abuse

This activity is designed for you to explore the continuum of an addictive behavior of your choice.

Addictive behavior appears in stages. The earliest stage is non-use, which finally leads up to out-of-control dependence. The stages in between are important to identify, as it is much easier to correct an early-stage issue as opposed to a late-stage problem.

After reviewing the module readings and tasks, use the module notes as a reference and alcohol or substance abuse addiction as an example to identify the various levels of addiction.

Outline the continuum of use from non-use to dependence (addiction). Give specific examples of behaviors at each of the levels of use.

You may choose to develop a time line identifying the stages or develop a written essay (no more than 500 words in Word format) to describe the escalation of addictive behaviors.

You are to include at least two references from academic sources that you have researched on this topic in the Excelsior College Library and use appropriate citations in American Psychological Association (APA) style.