Malleability of Thought: Synergy of Buddhist Ideas and the Treatment of Addiction.

This article examines how Buddhist concepts can be integrated into addiction treatment to support social work practice. It highlights key Buddhist ideas such as impermanence (anitya), suffering (dukkha), and the non-static self, which help clients reframe their addictions as changeable rather than f...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Health & Social Work Vol. 51; no. 2; pp. 160 - 163
Autor principal: Brower, Matthew C
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Oxford University Press / USA May2026
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Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:This article examines how Buddhist concepts can be integrated into addiction treatment to support social work practice. It highlights key Buddhist ideas such as impermanence (anitya), suffering (dukkha), and the non-static self, which help clients reframe their addictions as changeable rather than fixed identities. Mindfulness-based interventions, including mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), are discussed as evidence-based approaches that incorporate Buddhist meditation techniques to enhance clients’ awareness, psychological flexibility, and relapse prevention. The article emphasizes the importance of social workers embodying mindfulness practices themselves to effectively guide clients in transforming addictive behaviors.