Modelos teóricos de conceptualización del craving

Abstract

Objective: The concept of craving can be assessed in many different ways. It can be defined generally in terms of a desire for the previously experienced effects of ethanol, and it is considered by many addicts and clinicians as an important part of the process of addiction that can lead to relapse. Material and methods: To develop a definition of craving, it is necessary to review the theoretical models relevant to craving developed during the past two decades. These include classical and operant conditioning models, cognitive models of craving, phenomenological models, the incentive/sensitization theory, the homeostatic de regulation model, and a tonic/phasic model of dopamine system regulation. Results: This variety of models emphasizes the potential importance of transdisciplinary research for delineating the role of drug craving in addiction. Conclusions: A transdisciplinary synthesis could guide the development of methods and diagnostic tools in order to improve treatments and prevention strategies.