addictive - modifying: aversion: social

Question 1

cost

Answer 1

P: One weakness of aversion therapy is its high financial cost, both in terms of the therapy itself and the long-term costs associated with it.
E: According to Devlin (2008) in The Telegraph, the NHS spent £2.25 million on Antabuse and related medications in 2008, an increase from £1.08 million in 1998. This represents a significant financial burden for public health services.
T: Therefore the financial cost of aversion therapy, specifically medications like Antabuse, has been increasing over time and the long-term use of such treatments may not be sustainable for health services, especially in a time of budget constraints. It’s a weakness because the resources could be allocated to other, potentially more cost-effective treatments or preventative measures for addiction.
Counter: However, some argue that investing in these therapies could reduce long-term costs by preventing the broader social and economic consequences of addiction, such as healthcare costs and loss of productivity.

Question 2

increasing expenses

Answer 2

P: Another strength of aversion therapy is its potential to address the significant social costs associated with untreated addiction.
E: The Centre for Social Justice (2013) report highlights that alcohol abuse costs the taxpayer £21 billion annually, including the costs of addiction-related health problems, unemployment, and crime. It also notes that addiction leads to social problems like homelessness, family breakdowns, and crime.
T: Therefore By potentially reducing relapse rates and improving recovery outcomes, aversion therapy could help individuals regain employment, avoid criminal behavior, and reduce strain on social services.
Counter: However, critics argue that aversion therapy may not address the underlying psychological and emotional causes of addiction, leading to higher relapse rates and, in turn, continued social costs. Moreover, the therapy’s success rate may not be guaranteed for all individuals, limiting its impact on reducing these broader social issues.