Introduction
In the vast landscape of television narratives, “Mad Men,” a critically acclaimed series (2007-2015), holds a distinctive place for its profound and accurate depiction of alcohol addiction. This exploration focuses on Don Draper, the main character whose life is heavily entwined with his dependence on alcohol. By analyzing Don’s character through the multifaceted lens of the Bio-Psycho-Social Plus (BPS+) model of addiction, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding of alcohol addiction, its multifaceted influences, and its portrayal in popular media.
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The BPS+ Model and Its Relevance to Addiction
Pioneering a holistic approach to understanding addiction, the Bio-Psycho-Social Plus (BPS+) model, through its emphasis on interconnected elements, provides a comprehensive lens to view the intricate facets of addiction (Smith & Wilson, 2021). Unraveling these facets, the BPS+ model identifies four primary dimensions: Biological, Psychological, Social, and Cultural/Historical.
The Biological dimension revolves around genetic predispositions, neurobiological modifications, and the physical effects of substance use. The Psychological realm delves into individual mental health states, cognitive functioning, and emotional well-being. The Social dimension uncovers the influences of interpersonal relationships, community structures, and socioeconomic status. The Cultural/Historical aspect, often overlooked in traditional models, examines the role of societal norms, historical contexts, and policy environments in shaping addiction patterns.
BPS+ Model Analysis of Don Draper’s Alcohol Addiction
Biological/Physiological Factors
Building on burgeoning research, biological factors such as genetic predisposition to alcohol dependence are pivotal in understanding addiction’s underpinnings (Li et al., 2022). The portrayal of Don Draper’s character in Mad Men intricately mirrors this aspect. With his repeated and excessive alcohol consumption, Don’s brain undergoes neurobiological modifications, specifically in the reward system. This transformation establishes alcohol as an essential tool for stress relief and relaxation, increasing his reliance on alcohol and leading him further down the path of addiction.
Psychological Factors: A cornerstone of the BPS+ model, psychological factors, provide a deeper understanding of Don’s alcohol addiction. The series vividly depicts Don’s psychological turmoil, including unresolved trauma, identity crises, and deep-seated feelings of inadequacy (Weiner & Feldman, 2010). This psychological turmoil serves as a catalyst for his escalating alcohol use. The alcohol provides him a transient escape from his emotional distress, establishing a harmful cycle where the very tool of relief, alcohol, reinforces the addiction.
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Social Factors
The social context within which Don exists significantly fuels his alcohol addiction. Immersed in the corporate culture of a 1960s advertising firm, alcohol consumption becomes an integral part of work and social life. Furthermore, his turbulent personal relationships, particularly his unstable marriages, contribute additional stressors, thereby amplifying his dependence on alcohol as a coping mechanism (Weiner & Abraham, 2012).
Cultural/Historical Factors
The portrayal of Don’s addiction cannot be fully comprehended without considering the cultural and historical contexts. The 1960s era, as represented in Mad Men, was characterized by widespread acceptance and even encouragement of heavy drinking, particularly in professional settings. Simultaneously, the period lacked comprehensive addiction treatment mechanisms, and there was considerable societal stigma associated with addiction. These factors combined to create a situation where Don’s harmful drinking behaviors went largely unchecked and untreated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, analyzing “Mad Men” through the BPS+ model illuminates the multifaceted nature of alcohol addiction. The character of Don Draper, trapped in a web of biological, psychological, social, and cultural influences, provides a poignant example of the complex realities of addiction. This detailed exploration reinforces the need for a comprehensive, empathetic approach when understanding and addressing addiction, a task for which the BPS+ model is well suited. The key takeaway from this analysis is the importance of considering all elements of addiction – biological roots, psychological factors, social influences, and cultural norms – to develop a holistic understanding and potentially more effective interventions.
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References
Li, J., Kranzler, H. R., & Gelernter, J. (2022). Genomics of alcohol use disorder. Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, 23, 103-125.
Smith, J. P., & Wilson, K. M. (2021). A biosocial cognitive model of substance use recovery. Social Science & Medicine, 268, 113370.
Weiner, M., & Feldman, B. (2010). Mad Men Season 4. Lionsgate Television.
Weiner, M., & Abraham, M. (2012). Mad Men Season 5. Lionsgate Television.