What Determines Harm from Addictive Substances and Behaviours?

The multifaceted nature of harmful substance use and gambling requires interdisciplinary analysis to assess the underlying causes. What Determines Harm from Addictive Substances and Behaviours? draws together evidence from twelve disciplines including anthropology, genetics, neurobiology, and public policy. Using a developmental approach, the book presents evidence on the factors that influence the development of harmful substance use and gambling.

The determinants of harm operate at three levels: molecular, individual, and social; this book brings to light the complex interplay between them. It presents the scientific, social, economic, political, and psychological influences of harmful substance use and gambling. These single determinants are then synthesised into an integrative heuristic model to encourage new ways of thinking. The findings from this analysis are used to elaborate key general implications for health and broader social policy, clinical practice, and future research.

What Determines Harm from Addictive Substances and Behaviours? is based on research from ALICE RAP, a multidisciplinary European study of addictive substances and behaviours in contemporary society. This is an essential resource for public health professionals, stakeholders influencing policy for addictive substances and behaviours, students, and academics looking to better understand the factors influencing substance use and gambling and the implications this research has for addiction prevention policy.