Addiction as an Attachment Disorder

By Philip J Flores, 2004, published in USA by Jason Aronson.

In this work, Dr Flores shows how to give substance abusers an attachment experience and a sense of community where they feel they are accepted and belong. The theme of attachment, trust and safety is prominent throughout. Therapy, directed along the lines described, allows the chemically dependent person to get close and be intimate with others who are accepting of him without a cost to his identity and autonomy. Ultimately, it allows the alcoholic and addict to deal with the emotions and conflicts triggered by all intimate encounters without relying on alcohol and drugs to sedate, buffer or alter his or her feelings.