International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 6 (November-December 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of December to publish your research paper in the issue of November-December.

The Biochemical Mechanisms of Addiction: Understanding the Role of Dopamine in Human Behavior

Author(s) Ms. Aabish Asadulla Dalvi, Ms. Maitri Kalravkumar Thakkar
Country India
Abstract Addiction has traditionally been considered a breakdown in control or willpower, but new research shows that its roots are much more embedded in the brain's chemistry. The role of dopamine as a key neurotransmitter is explained in this paper. By analyzing new studies on dopamine's role in motivation and reinforcement, the paper explains how a normal reward process can develop into a compulsive habit. To connect these biochemical findings with everyday notions, a small survey of high school students was conducted to determine the extent of their knowledge about dopamine's connection with addiction. The results suggested that while most students (over 60%) were aware of dopamine and its link to reward, many viewed addiction as a mix of biological, psychological, and social causes rather than a purely neurochemical one. Social media and smartphone use were identified as the most common and concerning forms of addiction, with more than 90% recognizing their addictive potential. Despite this awareness, nearly half of the respondents admitted to struggling with reducing such behaviors, and only a small portion had successfully changed their habits after learning about their effects. The need for better awareness education with regards to dopamine and addictive behaviour is highlighted. Understanding the dopamine system not only helps explain why people develop addictions but also offers insights on how prevention and treatment can become more efficient and advanced in the future.
Keywords Dopamine, Addiction, Reward Pathway, Neurotransmitters, Brain Chemistry, Behavioral Neuroscience, Tolerance
Field Biology > Bio + Chemistry
Published In Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On 2025-11-22
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.60740
Short DOI https://doi.org/hbb78f

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