The “Rut Metaphor”: A Conceptualization of Attractor-Shaping Properties of Addictive Drugs

Abstract

The development of nonlinear models might yield better insight into the dynamics of substance use-related disorders than linear models. Nonlinear modelizations are, however, not always easily intelligible. A metaphor is presented illustrating a nonlinear conceptualization of the development of drug addiction based on recent findings on neural plasticity. Ruts are described as correlates of especially strong mnesic traces, which function as attractors, and hegemonize cognitions and behavior toward drug use. Dopaminergic activity of addictive drugs is proposed to represent the weight of vehicles tracing ruts.

Keywords:

• nonlinear dynamics
• metaphor
• addictive behavior
• glutamate
• NMDA receptors
• AMPA receptors