A patient who abuses heroin says, "I have willpower to manage my life in other areas, but I feel helpless to control my craving for heroin." The nurse's response should be based on research findings suggesting that addictive behavior is related to changes in what area of the brain?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Research has indicated that addictive behavior is related to changes in the nucleus accumbens, an area in the brain that is involved in reward and motivation. This area becomes activated when a person engages in pleasurable activities, such as using drugs, and over time can become reliant on the drug for activation. This can lead to craving and ultimately addiction. Willpower alone is often not enough to overcome these changes in the brain.

A Patient Who Abuses Heroin Says, "I Have Willpower to Manage