This is a common question that many of my clients ask. The answer is that currently, there is NO evidence of an addiction gene. However, many clinicians who work at both inpatient and outpatient facilities will tell clients that this gene does exist. In fact, I once worked at a facility that showed their clients a video about this non-existent gene. What the research does show us is that there are genetic vulnerabilities for addiction, so it is not incorrect to consider a family history of substance abuse as a risk factor. This genetic vulnerability is not as simple as inheriting one gene that predicts whether or not someone becomes an "addict". One example of a genetic vulnerability is how much stimulation the brain needs to feel pleasure. Inheriting a brain that is less responsive to natural rewards, such as food or sex, may increase a person's susceptibility to novelty seeking, impulsivity, and risk taking, which are risks factors for substance abuse. Another genetic vulnerability is how a particular substance is metabolized by the brain; one person may feel intoxicated after drinking two beers, whereas another may require six beers to achieve the same effect. A third example could be the inheritance of certain mental health disorders, such as anxiety. Anxiety may make a person more likely to feel rewarded by a substance that reduces anxiety, such a Xanax, than a person who does not have a predisposition for anxiety. And of course, we must always consider how these genetic vulnerabilities interact with a person's environment and life experiences. For example, environmental factors such as trauma or poor relationships with one's family of origin, increase the likelihood of substance abuse problems. Thus, teaching clients that they have inherited a gene that has made them into an addict is a simplification of a more complex phenomenon, and may cause more harm than good.
Is There An Addiction Gene?
Narberth, PA Therapist
Dr. Marc L. Feldman
610-675-5517FAX: 484-709-1676
[email protected]
111 Forrest Ave
Fl 2
Narberth, PA 19072
Professional Endorsements
"Dr Marc Feldman is an outstanding clinician and collaborator. He is kind, non-judgmental, reliable, and goes above and beyond for his patients. I would highly recommend his services to a loved one looking for compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic addiction treatment".--Dr. Michael Ascher, MD.
"Dr. Feldman is an exceptional psychologist and well-respected colleague whom I had the pleasure to work with at the Keystone Center. Dr. Feldman's sensitivity to his clients' needs is only matched by his professionalism in providing them the best possible services. He is compassionate, warm, and genuine-- several of the most important ingrediants of a psychologist. It is for these reasons that I-- without reservation-- recommend his services". -- Dr. Chad Coren, Psy.D., CAADC
"I have known Dr. Feldman since 2010 and we have collaborated on some complicated cases. Dr. Feldman has always provided his patients with exceptional care, has great insight into understanding the challenges faced by them and readily collaborates with physician providers. His expertise has helped many patients find their way in life again. He is a compassionate, warm and very experienced clinician as his patients have come to know."--Dr. Mohamed Dattu, MD
"I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Feldman as a peer and a colleague. Dr. Feldman is a psychologist who is truly invested in the well-being of his clients. His combination of empathy and professionalism allows him to connect with his clients in a unique and therapeutic manner. Dr. Feldman uses a variety of psychological techniques to individualize the therapeutic process according to the needs of the client. He is an excellent clinician who has been able to reach even significantly resistent clientele in order to help them achieve their goals". -- Dr. Emily Chaffin, Psy.D.
"As a criminal defense attorney, I often work with individuals who have substance abuse problems that have either resulted in, or played a role in their criminal charges. I refer many of these individuals to Dr. Feldman, because I am confident that they will receive competent and effective treatment, and that they will not be judged for their substance use or legal problems. I also practice family law, and have referred couples to Dr. Feldman in order to address the issues that have either caused them to seek legal counsel, or to work on problems that were created by their legal situation." --Justin Highlands, Esq., Attorney at Law
"As a criminal defense attorney, I often work with individuals who have substance abuse problems that have either resulted in, or played a role in their criminal charges. I refer many of these individuals to Dr. Feldman, because I am confident that they will receive competent and effective treatment, and that they will not be judged for their substance use or legal problems. I also practice family law, and have referred couples to Dr. Feldman in order to address the issues that have either caused them to seek legal counsel, or to work on problems that were created by their legal situation." --Justin Highlands, Esq., Attorney at Law