explanations for nicotine addiction: learning theory Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is the learning theory explanation for smoking behavior?
It is based on classical and operant conditioning mechanisms, suggesting nicotine addiction is a learned behavior.
What is positive reinforcement in smoking?
When smoking results in pleasurable effects (e.g. euphoria), increasing the likelihood of repeated behavior.
What neurotransmitter is involved in nicotine’s rewarding effects?
Dopamine, particularly in the mesolimbic pathway.
What is the nucleus accumbens?
A brain area stimulated by dopamine which creates feelings of euphoria and reinforces smoking behavior.
What is negative reinforcement in the context of smoking?
Smoking reduces unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, making it more likely a smoker will continue the behavior.
What withdrawal symptoms contribute to negative reinforcement?
Behavioral (e.g. agitation), cognitive (e.g. poor concentration), and mood disturbances (e.g. anxiety).
How does negative reinforcement explain smoking maintenance?
It reduces withdrawal symptoms, making smoking more appealing.
What is a primary reinforcer in smoking?
Nicotine, due to its direct rewarding effect on the dopamine system.
What are secondary reinforcers in smoking?
Stimuli associated with smoking, like environments, friends, lighters, or the smell of tobacco.
How do secondary reinforcers develop?
Through repeated association with nicotine’s pleasurable effects.
What is cue reactivity?
Craving and arousal triggered by nicotine-associated cues.
What are the three main cue reactivity responses?
- Subjective desire/craving, 2. Physiological signs (e.g. heart rate), 3. Objective behavioral indicators (e.g. number of puffs).
What is the significance of cue reactivity?
It shows both psychological and physical responses to smoking-related cues.
What did Levin et al. (2010) demonstrate using rats?
Rats self-administered nicotine more often when it was linked to a reward cue (licking a lever).
What does rat research suggest about nicotine?
That it acts as a positive reinforcer through operant conditioning.
What did Tiffany (1990) find in their meta-analysis?
Dependent smokers showed stronger physiological and psychological cue responses than non-dependent smokers.
What does support for cue reactivity suggest?
That smokers form secondary associations with smoking-related stimuli and pleasurable effects.
What is counterconditioning?
A therapy using pleasant smoking effects paired with an aversive stimulus to reduce smoking behavior.
How effective is counterconditioning?
Mixed results; some studies show effectiveness, but criticisms exist due to lack of proper control.
What study showed success with counterconditioning?
Smith’s (1988) study, where smokers gave themselves electric shocks when engaging in smoking-related behavior.
What were the results of Smith’s counterconditioning study?
52% of participants were still abstaining; higher than the 25–20% of those quitting without treatment.
What is a limitation of counterconditioning studies?
Some lack control groups, so results may not reflect true effectiveness.
What is a real-world application of learning theory?
Use of therapy based on classical conditioning to support smoking cessation.
Why is animal research used in nicotine studies?
Because conditioning mechanisms are similar across humans and animals.
