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Ego development, dragon fights, and chronic drug abusers

J V Spotts, F C Shontz

    The International Journal of the Addictions
    |August 1, 1982
    PubMed
    Summary

    This study explores developmental roots of adult behavior in chronic drug users. Findings suggest novel psychological treatments are crucial for barbiturate, opiate, and cocaine addiction.

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    Area of Science:

    • Psychology
    • Addiction Studies
    • Developmental Psychology

    Background:

    • Chronic drug use impacts adult behavior.
    • Understanding developmental antecedents is key to effective treatment.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe developmental antecedents of adult behavior in chronic drug users.
    • To characterize specific user groups (cocaine, amphetamine, opiates, barbiturates/sedative-hypnotics) and non-users.
    • To integrate findings within a psychological development theory.

    Main Methods:

    • Intensive 1.5-year study of matched groups: chronic drug users (cocaine, amphetamine, opiates, barbiturates/sedative-hypnotics) and non-users.
    • Theoretical integration using ego transformation and mythological dragon fight metaphors.
    • Characterization of each group by core conflict, individuation limits, and typical personality.

    Main Results:

    • Distinct developmental patterns identified for different chronic drug user groups.
    • Theoretical framework links psychological development to drug use behaviors.
    • Specific user groups (barbiturates, opiates, cocaine) show unique challenges.

    Conclusions:

    • Current psychological treatments may be insufficient for certain chronic drug users.
    • Radically new therapeutic approaches are indicated, particularly for barbiturate, opiate, and cocaine dependence.
    • Further research into developmental antecedents can inform innovative addiction treatment strategies.

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