Ukani, Zahra

Person Preferred Name
Ukani, Zahra
Model
Digital Document
Publisher
Florida Atlantic University
Description
The neuroscience of addiction primarily focuses on identifying the biochemical factors and neurocircuitry, while anthropology examines the sociocultural components. This thesis will explore the development of the field of neuroanthropology, followed by a discussion of the neurobiology of addiction and cultural models for treatment. I examine the discourse among drug users and recovered addicts as expressed through an online public forum, Quora. I will focus on the ways in which users turn to this social platform for advice on taking drugs, thereby enforcing the habit, but also for accessing recovery narratives as inspiration to quit, instead of turning to medical providers. My analysis of the online discussions will provide a better understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of approaches to addiction. An interdisciplinary, holistic approach to addiction yields more sustainable options for users that they are better able to integrate and adopt as their own.