According to the behavioral view of etiology, what influences continued drug use?

The behavioral view of etiology emphasizes the role of learning and external factors in the development and continuation of behaviors, including drug use. In particular, continued drug use is influenced by both positive and negative reinforcement.

Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by a rewarding stimulus, making it more likely that the behavior will be repeated. For instance, if using a drug leads to pleasurable feelings or social acceptance, that positive experience can reinforce the behavior, encouraging continued use.

Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus when a certain behavior occurs. For example, an individual might use a drug to avoid feelings of anxiety or distress, thereby reinforcing drug use as a means to feel better and escape discomfort.

Together, these mechanisms explain why individuals may continue to use drugs despite potential negative consequences. Both types of reinforcement contribute to the behavioral patterns associated with substance use, making this perspective a comprehensive lens through which to understand continued drug usage.