According to family counseling principles, addiction is viewed as what type of illness?

In the context of family counseling principles, addiction is viewed as a family illness because it recognizes the impact of addiction not just on the individual but also on their family system as a whole. This perspective emphasizes that addiction involves patterns of behavior and communication that affect family dynamics, relationships, and the overall functioning of the household.

Viewing addiction as a family illness prompts therapists and counselors to engage the entire family in the treatment process, acknowledging that changes in one family member's behavior can influence the entire family system. This approach facilitates addressing underlying issues, family roles, and interactions that may contribute to or perpetuate the addiction, allowing for a more comprehensive treatment plan that enhances the chances of recovery for the individual and healing for the family unit.

This understanding also aligns with systemic therapy models, which emphasize the interconnectedness of individuals within their family and social contexts, advocating for the involvement of family members in the treatment process.