title: Why do we take drugs? From the drug-reinforcement theory to a novel concept of drug instrumentalization.
abstract: The drug-reinforcement theory explains why humans get engaged in drug taking behavior. This theory posits that drugs of abuse serve as biological rewards by activating the reinforcement system. Although from a psychological and neurobiological perspective this theory is extremely helpful, it does not tell us about the drug-taking motives and motivation of an individual. The definition of drug instrumentalization goals will improve our understanding of individual drug-taking profiles.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health (CIMH), University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany. drainer.spanagel@zi-mannheim.de www.zi-mannheim.de.
authors.forename: Rainer
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Spanagel
mesh_terms: D055030:Drug Users / Q000523:psychology*; D058999:Drug-Seeking Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011582:Psychological Theory; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000187:drug effects*; D012651:Self Medication / Q000523:psychology*