Define Enabling Viewed by the Chemical Dependency Field

Enabling is used to describe human actions that have both positive and negative implications. To enable a computer program means to make it work---a positive action; to enable a chemically dependent addict would be negative.

Definition

• Enabling, in terms of chemical dependency, is defined as any seemingly helpful behavior on the part of friends and family that is not focused on getting the person into treatment, according to the Drug Rehab Center Hotline. The longer treatment is avoided, the longer the addict spends in chemical dependency, and the more physical and mental damage is done.

Behavior

• According to the Drug Rehab Center Hotline, colleagues, family and friends of someone with a chemical dependency can make the mistake of shielding or protecting addicts from the consequences of their addiction. According to Nebraska Health and Human Services, enabling behavior can include ignoring or excusing addictive behavior, doing a person's job for them and even supplying drugs.

Intervention

• Non-enabling behavior in the chemical dependency field would include any actions that guide the addict toward recognizing his problem and accepting treatment. One method is intervention, the process where colleagues, friends, family and an intervention counselor assist the chemically dependent person to confront his addiction and accept treatment, according to the Drug Rehab Center Hotline.

Importance of Treatment

• Drug rehab treatment for chemical dependency includes drug detoxification under medical supervision and reeducation to help ex-addicts to live substance free. Some rehab centers also offer courses on identifying and changing enabling behavior.