By Maia Szalavitz
~ I am thankful for her new research: addiction is primarily a developmental disorder, with impulse control hugely lacking. Addiction is not defined by dependence on a particular substance to function or by a desire to avoid withdrawal or by simply being obsessed with the object of the addiction. Addiction is defined by using a drug or activity in a compulsive manner despite negative consequences. Szalavitz educates us that threats or painful experiences do not stop addiction, nor does drug exposure cause addiction. However, the book falls short on what to do specifically when in crisis, and where to help our addicts GO when in dire straits. This book is a stepping stone. We need new prevention programs, other groundbreaking treatments in addition to AA, NA, new group recovery programs, better policies to regulate substances. But what are they?