Book Critique:

Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

by Maia Szalavitz

Thitirat Pongprajuc

Salt Lake Community Collage

PSY 2710 Brain and Behavior

Dr. Emily Putnum

April 28, 2024

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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

Book Summary

Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction by Maia

Szalavitz presents a fresh standpoint on addiction. The book argues against traditional beliefs

that addiction is only a moral weakness or a brain disease. The author, a neuroscience journalist,

and former addict analyzes her own experience and research to suggest that addiction might be

better understood as a learning disorder. This new perspective challenges the negative stigma

attached to addiction and the punitive measures adopted for its management.

Key Concepts and Framework

Szalavitz argues that addiction results from the brain's normal learning processes going

awry, which often happens during critical developmental periods such as adolescence (Szalavitz,

2016, p. 4). The book combines personal stories with neuroscience, psychology, and research

studies to examine how genetics and the environment play a role in the development of addictive

behaviors. By viewing addiction as a learning disorder, Szalavitz suggests a shift in focus from

blaming and punishing to comprehending and treating addiction through learning methods and

environmental modifications.

The Role of Environment and Neuroplasticity

In Unbroken Brain, one of the main arguments is that addiction can be significantly

influenced by environmental factors. The book emphasizes the importance of neuroplasticity,

which is the brain's ability to adapt and change in response to experiences, in the development of

addiction. According to the author, environments that are stressful, lack support, or provide easy

access to drugs can contribute to the neural adaptations that lead to addictive behaviors

(Szalavitz, 2016, p. 53-54, 60-68). This understanding requires a holistic approach to prevention

and treatment that addresses social and physical environments beyond the individual.
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

Critique of Traditional Addiction Treatment

Szalavitz is highly critical of traditional addiction treatment methods that often focus on

punishment or morality rather than evidence-based and therapeutic approaches. According to her,

such methods can be counterproductive and worsen the stigma associated with addiction while

ignoring the underlying causes (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 21). Instead, she advocates for individualized

approaches based on learning patterns and personal history, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy

and medication-assisted treatment. These approaches have shown greater effectiveness and

compassion in treating addiction (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 271).

Scientific Soundness and Evidence

In her book, Szalavitz draws from 285 references, including research in neuroscience,

psychology, and pharmacology to support her claims (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 289-322). She skillfully

incorporates personal narratives to humanize scientific discussions, building a persuasive

argument for a perspective that views addiction as a process of learning and development.

Although the idea that addiction is a learning disorder is gaining support from

neuroscientific research, it is not yet widely accepted by the scientific community as a whole.

This is because addiction is a complex phenomenon that involves various overlapping factors,

including biology, social environment, and individual psychology. The book under review relies

heavily on anecdotal evidence, which, while compelling, may not always meet the rigorous

standards of scientific proof.

Critique of Unbroken Brain by Maia Szalavitz

Unbroken Brain by Maia Szalavitz offers several compelling strengths that contribute to

its groundbreaking perspective on addiction. It sheds light on its complexities and challenges

conventional treatment approaches.

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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

Innovative Perspective on Addiction

According to Szalavitz, addiction can be considered as a developmental learning disorder.

This theory is backed by research in neuroscience which suggests that addiction occurs due to

maladaptive learning processes, specifically related to the way the brain reacts to rewards and

stress (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 127). Szalavitz's perspective on addiction aligns with recent studies

suggesting that addiction is significantly influenced by the brain's neuroplasticity. Research on

the neural mechanisms of reward, for instance, highlights how substance use and the context in

which it is used can profoundly alter learning pathways (Volkow et al., 2016). This approach

represents a significant shift from the traditional disease model and offers a more nuanced

understanding of addiction. It can lead to personalized treatment strategies focused on relearning

and managing triggers instead of just treating symptoms.

Emphasis on Environmental and Personal Factors

The book provides a detailed investigation of how environmental and personal factors

contribute to addiction. Szalavitz highlights the significant roles that traumatic experiences,

social isolation, and stress have in fostering addictive behaviors (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 60-68). In

her discussion, she highlights the significance of considering various factors, such as

socioeconomic and psychological dimensions, in the conversation about addiction. She suggests

promoting a holistic approach towards the prevention and treatment of addiction and recognizing

that it is not just a biological malfunction but rather a result of intricate interactions between

personal experiences and environmental conditions.

Advocacy for Policy Change

Szalavitz not only criticizes existing paradigms, but she also actively advocates for policy

changes that align with her findings. She calls for the decriminalization of drug use, increased

access to harm reduction strategies, and reforms in the way the justice system handles drug
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

offenders (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 232-233, 271). This proactive approach is supported by evidence

indicating that such policy shifts could lead to widespread improvements. Studies demonstrate

that advocating for changes in addiction treatment policies can significantly benefit public

health, lower incarceration rates, and enhance outcomes for individuals struggling with

addiction. (Hawk et al., 2017).

As stated above, Maia Szalavitz's book Unbroken Brain offers valuable insights;

however, it also contains certain drawbacks and criticisms that warrant careful examination.

Overreliance on Personal Anecdotes

Szalavitz's use of personal narratives to explain scientific concepts can be engaging and

accessible, but it may also come with some drawbacks. By relying too much on anecdotal

evidence to support broad claims, it can introduce bias and overlook the need for rigorous

scientific validation. Personal stories may not always be representative of common experiences

or be supported by empirical research, leading to overgeneralizations about the nature of

addiction and its treatment. Therefore, while personal narratives can be useful, it's important to

balance them with scientific evidence to ensure a complete and accurate understanding of

addiction and its treatment.

Potential Oversimplification of Complex Interactions

In her claim, Szalavitz argues that addiction can be primarily understood as a learning

disorder. While this perspective is certainly compelling, it is important to note that addiction

arises from complex interactions between genetics, environment, and personal choice (National

Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2018). In fact, reducing addiction to a simple learning disorder

may underestimate the biological aspects of substance dependence. For example, individuals

may have genetic predispositions that make them more vulnerable to addiction. Also, there are

complex biochemical mechanisms at play that contribute to addiction, including changes in the
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

brain's reward system that make it difficult for individuals to stop using drugs or alcohol even

when they want to (Volkow et al., 2016). While learning certainly plays a role in addiction, it is

just one piece of a much larger puzzle. It's important to acknowledge the role of both

environmental and biological factors in learning.

Limited Discussion on Contrary Evidence

The book does not adequately address opposing views and contradictory evidence, which

limits its scope. A more comprehensive discussion of these perspectives would enhance its depth.

For example, the book provides insufficient coverage of the effectiveness of abstinence-based

programs like 12-step programs. On the contrary, these programs have been beneficial for many

individuals who are struggling with addiction (Kelly et al., 2020), but they receive minimal

attention on their benefits in the book. For readers seeking comprehensive guidance on addiction

treatment options, it would be helpful to explore both the advantages and limitations of these

programs. Taking a more diverse approach towards addiction by considering varied scientific

opinions and experiences can help readers gain a deeper understanding of its complexities.

Real-World Applications of Unbroken Brain to the Wicked Problem of Addiction

Unbroken Brain, written by Maia Szalavitz, offers a new perspective on addiction. It

views addiction as a developmental learning disorder rather than a moral failure or chronic brain

disease. Even though this claim has not been widely accepted, this viewpoint has practical

applications that could change how society addresses the problem of addiction. The book reveals

how these insights can be used to deal with addiction more effectively.

Reframing Addiction as a Learning Disorder

Application: Maia Szalavitz's Unbroken Brain emphasizes addiction as a disorder of

learning and development within medical and social contexts. (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 271). This
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

approach suggests that addiction treatment should not solely rely on punishment but should also

involve educating and providing therapy to individuals. The interventions should focus on

teaching skills and strategies that can assist them in effectively managing environmental triggers

and stress. By doing so, the approach encourages individuals to adopt adaptive learning

techniques that can help them reprogram how they respond to their surroundings and internal

cues.

Real-world impact: Viewing addiction as a learning disorder can significantly impact the

design and implementation of prevention and treatment programs. Educational programs can be

tailored to develop resilience and coping mechanisms in individuals who are at risk of

developing addiction. Such programs can focus on early intervention, teaching young people and

vulnerable populations how to proactively handle stress and potential triggers. For those dealing

with addiction, personalized learning interventions can be developed to help modify their

responses to cravings and stress. By integrating the perspective of addiction as a learning

disorder, more compassionate, effective, and scientifically grounded strategies can be developed

to address this complex and multifaceted issue.

Emphasizing the Role of Environment in Addiction

Application: In her book Unbroken Brain, Maia Szalavitz emphasizes the significant

impact that environmental factors have on the development and persistence of addiction

(Szalavitz, 2016, p. 60-68). It is important to implement community-based preventative

strategies that not only address but also modify the social and physical environments that

contribute to the cycle of addiction. By doing so, we can create settings that discourage addictive

behaviors and promote healthier alternatives.

Real-world impact: Implementing community-based programs that focus on reducing

violent behavior, promoting educational opportunities, and strengthening social support systems
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

is crucial in preventing addiction. This approach can create a safer and more supportive

environment that encourages personal growth and resilience against addiction triggers. In

addition, policies that prioritize improving access to high-quality mental health services can

address underlying mental health issues that are often linked to substance abuse. By providing

comprehensive mental health care, these policies can not only aid in the direct treatment of

addiction but also work to prevent its onset by addressing contributory factors at their root. By

implementing such interventions, we can significantly reduce addiction rates and achieve a

profound impact on addiction prevention and treatment.

Advocating for Compassionate and Personalized Treatment Approaches

Application: Maia Szalavitz's Unbroken Brain critically examines current addiction

treatment methodologies and punitive policies, which often rely on a generic, one-size-fits-all

approach (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 216-219). Szalavitz argues that conventional strategies are

ineffective and advocates for individualized treatment plans tailored to meet unique

psychological, environmental, and physiological needs (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 220-221). This

approach recognizes addiction as a complex interplay of various factors rather than a singular

behavioral issue.

Real-world impact: Medical professionals are increasingly recognizing the importance of

personalized medicine in addiction care. This approach combines medication-assisted treatment

and psychological therapies to address the underlying causes of addiction. By creating treatment

plans tailored to each individual patient, the chances of long-term success are greatly increased.

These customized plans consider all aspects of a patient's life and health, providing support that

is as dynamic as the recovery process itself. As healthcare providers and insurers recognize the

benefits of individualized treatment plans, they will likely allocate more resources to these

approaches. This has the potential to improve recovery rates, reduce relapse incidences, and
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

create a more compassionate and responsive healthcare environment for those struggling with

addiction. Ultimately, personalized addiction care represents a progressive step towards

addressing addiction as the complex health issue that it truly is. By aligning treatment

methodologies with the unique circumstances of each patient, we can achieve better patient

outcomes and a more empathetic approach to addiction treatment.

Enhancing Public Education and Reducing Stigma

Application: In Unbroken Brain, Maia Szalavitz advocates for a transformative shift in

how addiction is perceived by the public—from being seen as a moral failing to being

understood as a manageable and treatable medical condition (Szalavitz, 2016, p. 232-233, 271).

By sharing her own experiences along with those of others, Szalavitz humanizes individuals

struggling with addiction, shedding light on the complex nature of this condition (Szalavitz,

2016, p. 60-68). This educational approach challenges existing stereotypes and misconceptions,

aiming to reshape societal views and reduce the stigma associated with addiction.

Real-world impact: The stigma surrounding addiction often acts as a significant barrier,

preventing individuals from seeking the necessary help and support. Altering public perceptions

and reducing stigma can encourage more people to reach out for assistance at earlier stages of

addiction, which is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. To achieve this, public

campaigns and educational initiatives can be implemented in schools. These efforts educate the

public about the signs of addiction and the most effective strategies for response, thereby

fostering a supportive community environment. Such educational programs not only inform but

also empower communities to support prevention efforts and engage more compassionately with

those affected. Early intervention and informed support can drastically improve treatment

outcomes, making recovery a more attainable goal for many. Additionally, a community-oriented
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

approach to addressing addiction helps to integrate support mechanisms into everyday

environments, making them more accessible to those in need and promoting sustained recovery.

Personal Reflection on Unbroken Brain by Maia Szalavitz

I found Unbroken Brain by Maia Szalavitz to be a transformative and enlightening book.

The author's perspective on addiction as a learning disorder rather than a moral failing or chronic

disease challenged my preconceived notions about addiction. This viewpoint resonates with me

as it highlights the complexity of addiction and the need for compassionate and scientifically

informed approaches to address it. The author's use of personal anecdotes combined with

rigorous scientific research makes the arguments particularly compelling and relatable.

I must admit that reading Szalavitz's book has been a real eye-opener for me. Prior to

reading it, I didn't have a clear understanding of what it means to be an addict since I haven't had

personal experience with anyone in my immediate circle who struggles with drug addiction.

However, her book provided me with a detailed and insightful portrayal of the addict's

experience as well as scientific insights into addiction. This has given me a new perspective on

this complex issue.

I found the book's potential to bring about real-world changes most valuable. Szalavitz

suggests a shift in how society perceives and treats addiction, promoting more humane and

effective interventions. I think her insights have the potential to revolutionize educational

programs, therapeutic practices, and policymaking, prioritizing support and rehabilitation over

punishment, and this could bring about positive changes in society. These methods not only

match my personal beliefs but also indicate a forward-thinking view towards healthcare and

social equality.
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

Szalavitz's book suggests that policy reform through decriminalization and harm

reduction strategies can significantly improve public health and criminal justice. Implementing

these changes could help reduce harm and improve the lives of millions affected by addiction.

This part of the book caught my attention and made me feel that urgent action is needed for

societal progress.

In summary, Unbroken Brain is not only an important book but also a necessary one for

anyone who wants to comprehend and deal with the complexities of addiction. The book's

comprehensive analysis and the wide range of implications it presents make it a must-read for

policymakers, healthcare providers, educators, and anyone who is impacted by addiction.

Szalavitz's work has undoubtedly enhanced my understanding of the topic and encouraged me to

advocate for changes that can lead to better outcomes for individuals and communities.
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Book Critique: Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction

References

Hawk, K., Vaca, F. E., & D’Onofrio, G. (2017). Reducing fatal opioid overdose: Prevention,

treatment and harm reduction strategies. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 90(3),

393-402. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5614457/

Kelly, J. F., Humphreys, K., & Ferri, M. (2020). Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step

programs for alcohol use disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 3,

CD012880. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD012880.pub2

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2018). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A

Research-Based Guide (Third edition). Retrieved from

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-

based-guide-third-edition

Szalavitz, M. (2016). Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction.

St. Martin's Press.

Volkow, N. D., Koob, G. F., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Neurobiologic Advances from the Brain

Disease Model of Addiction. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(4), 363-371.

https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra1511480