'A disease of the brain': How do neurobiological explanations of addiction influence the attitudes and behaviour of smokers? (2012-2015)
Abstract
Addiction is increasingly promoted as a 'brain disease' arising from the effects of nicotine on smokers' brains. Recent findings show that neurobiological factors strongly influence addiction to nicotine. This project will use mixed-methods to explore how endorsement of a neurobiological model of addiction by smokers influences their self-efficacy to quit smoking and the cessation methods used. This research is essential to anticipate the social and behavioural impacts of neuroscience research on addiction and will provide recommendations for public education messages and government health policies related to smoking cessation.
