Addiction is like all behaviors “a matter of the brain”. Addictions are compulsive physical and psychological cravings resulting from addictive substances such as nicotine, alcohol and drugs. Being employed or involved in such activities, leads a person who uses them again and again to become tolerant and dependent, eventually experiencing withdrawal. (Molintas, 2006). Addictive drugs cause dopamine neurons to release dopamine, the pleasure hormone. Narcotics disable neurons that normally keep dopamine neurons in check; becoming overly stimulated. Endorphins are produced and released in the brain, creating a high and strengthening the individual's positive associations with the activity. Hence “the rush” (Molintas, 2006). Considering alcohol, alcoholic beverages have been part of this nation's past since the landing of the Pilgrims (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4). Early settlers held alcoholic beverages in high esteem because alcohol was believed to be a healthful substance with preventative and curative abilities rather than an intoxicant. (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4) Alcohol was the “central point” in taverns throughout the colonies. The production and consumption of alcohol caused enough concern to precipitate several versions of the "temperance" movement, which developed to encourage people to abstain from the use of distilled spirits. Their goal was to replace excessive alcohol consumption with more moderate, socially approved levels of consumption (David Capuzzi, 2008, p. 4). In the early 1800s, clergy believed that alcohol could corrupt both the mind and body (David Capuzzi, 2008, p.4). Throughout history, humans have used medications to achieve desired changes in experiences. Even ancient warriors “……middle of paper……rator, can deny responsibility by citing a lack of control caused by drugs or alcohol. It remains valid that drug and alcohol abuse are common characteristics of all forms of violence (Wallace, 2008, p. 19). Works Cited David Capuzzi, MD (2008). Fundamentals of addiction counseling. Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.Molintas, D. (2006, November 26). Addictions. Retrieved from Anatomy of Addictions: www.pcij.org/i-report/2006/addictions.htmlStanton Peele. (1988). Major contemporary perspectives on addiction and alcoholism. New York, NY: Macmillian, Inc. Unknown. (2011, January 7). Is alcoholism a disease? Retrieved January 7, 2011, from Alcohol and Drug Guide.com: www.alcohol-and-drug-guide.com/alcoholism-disease-model.htmlWallace, H. (2008). Legal, Medical, and Social Perspectives on Family Violence - Fifth Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.