Final answer:
Kurt's dangerous addiction to heroin likely stemmed from tolerance and dependence due to opponent-process theory, which explains the increased usage to recreate initial euphoric effects and the severe withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to opponent-process theory, the basis of Kurt's dangerous addiction to heroin may have been the development of tolerance. As Kurt used heroin, his body adjusted to the presence of the drug, requiring him to consume more to achieve the same euphoric effect. This phenomenon is common with addictive substances, where the initial pleasurable effects are followed by a less pleasurable state, leading to a cycle of increased use and the development of dependence. Due to this escalating need for higher doses, there is an increased risk of overdose, as users seek to recapture the initial 'high' they once experienced from lower doses of the drug.
Additionally, as the body becomes physically dependent on heroin for normal functioning, cessation of use can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and even dangerous. This, coupled with the psychological distress of not having the drug, reinforces the compulsive use of heroin despite the negative consequences—defining characteristics of addiction. To break this cycle, rehabilitation often involves psychotherapy and support groups, and in some cases may be aided by medications that reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing addiction themselves, such as methadone in the treatment of heroin addiction.