... primary reason behind an addicts continued dependence on drugs is to obtain the drugs positive effects. The model does not dismiss any role played by withdrawal symptoms or the personal circumstances of an addict however it argues that the primary reason in most cases of drug addiction is the craving for the positive-incentive (pleasure producing) properties of the drugs. one recent positive-incentive theory of addiction put forward by Robinson and Berridge emphasises the point that it isn't the pleasure of drug taking per se that is the basis of addiction; it is the anticipated pleasure of drug taking (i.e. the drug's positive incentive value). In early stages the drug's positive- incentive value is closely tied to its pleasurable effect; but tolerance often develops to the pleasurable effects, where as the addicts wanting for the drug is sensitised. As a result in chronic addicts, the positive incentive value of the ...

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