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. 2011 Aug;8(8):3399-415.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph8083399. Epub 2011 Aug 18.

A framework for the specificity of addictions

Steve Sussman  1 , Adam Leventhal, Ricky N Bluthenthal, Marilyn Freimuth, Myriam Forster, Susan L Ames
Affiliations

A framework for the specificity of addictions

Steve Sussman et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2011 Aug.

Abstract

Research over the last two decades suggests that a wide range of substance and behavioral addictions may serve similar functions. Yet, co-occurrence of addictions has only been reported among a minority of addicts. "Addiction specificity" pertains to a phenomenon in which one pattern of addictive behaviors may be acquired whereas another is not. This paper presents the PACE model as a framework which might help explain addiction specificity. Pragmatics, attraction, communication, and expectation (PACE) variables are described, which may help give some direction to future research needs in this arena.

Keywords: PACE model; addiction specificity.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Diagram of the PACE model.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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