The Department of Psychology at the University of Malta invites academic staff and students to two lectures on 'Addictions' by Petar Valkov, Ph.D. on Wednesday 10 May from 12:00 to 14:00 in the Psychology Lab, Old Humanities Building (OH 101).
Talk 1: 12:00 noon
Is Addiction a disease or choice? Disease model on trial
Addiction treatment providers continue to give different and often controversial explanation of aetiology of substance addictions. While majority seem to hold steadfast to the idea that addiction is a disease, the other theorists maintain to the contrary that addiction is merely a choice. The advocates of brain disease model argue that acceptance of their view will reduce the stigmatisation. On the contrary, critics of the brain disease model claim that placing responsibility for addiction on the individual's 'brain' neglects the role of other factors, e.g. social environment, religiosity, person’s will – as contributors to addiction. In conclusion, the complexity of addiction phenomenon requires also a complex approach in understanding of addictions.
Addiction treatment providers continue to give different and often controversial explanation of aetiology of substance addictions. While majority seem to hold steadfast to the idea that addiction is a disease, the other theorists maintain to the contrary that addiction is merely a choice. The advocates of brain disease model argue that acceptance of their view will reduce the stigmatisation. On the contrary, critics of the brain disease model claim that placing responsibility for addiction on the individual's 'brain' neglects the role of other factors, e.g. social environment, religiosity, person’s will – as contributors to addiction. In conclusion, the complexity of addiction phenomenon requires also a complex approach in understanding of addictions.
Talk 2: 13:00
Birth Order as protective or risk factor to substance use disorder
In this lecture, the birth order is presented as possible explanation to substance use disorder (SUD). Based on Adler’s view on birth order, the focus will be how this phenomenon shapes the personality traits toward protection or higher risk to substance abuse. Author’s own empirical research shows the prevalence of last-borns among persons with SUD history. However, the findings are initial and further research is needed.
Petar Valkov serves as a chief assistant professor of psychology in Educational and Social Sciences Department at Trakia University, Bulgaria. His educational background includes a M.A. in Clinical and Counseling Psychology and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Sofia University. Dr Valkov is also a practicing clinical psychologist at St Panteleymon Medical Center, where he helps people to cope more effectively with life issues and mental health problems.
Those interested to attend are kindly requested to contact Sarah Jane Mifsud on email: sarah.j.mifsud@um.edu.mt or call on +356 2340 2312.
