The phenomenon you described can be attributed to the complex nature of mental disorders and the way our brains process information and form associations. There are several factors at play here:
Implicit vs. explicit learning: Implicit learning involves acquiring knowledge without conscious awareness or intention. It often occurs through repeated experiences and associations. On the other hand, explicit learning involves conscious awareness and intentional effort to acquire knowledge. In the case of substance addiction, people might implicitly learn the potential consequences because the negative effects become evident over time through personal experiences or observing others' struggles.
Reinforcement mechanisms: Substance addiction is often associated with immediate and powerful positive reinforcement, such as euphoria or relief from negative emotions. Our brains are wired to seek pleasure and avoid pain, so the positive reinforcement from substances can lead to implicit learning of their rewarding effects.
Social and cultural factors: Society often provides explicit warnings and educates people about the risks of substance addiction. There are campaigns, educational programs, and media coverage highlighting the negative consequences of drug abuse, leading to greater explicit awareness of the dangers.
Stigma and denial: In the case of dysfunctional behavioral traits associated with mental disorders, there may be stigma attached, making it difficult for individuals to openly acknowledge and address their problems. Denial or minimization of dysfunctional behaviors is common in mental health conditions, hindering explicit awareness and acceptance of the issue.
Cognitive distortions: Mental disorders can be associated with cognitive distortions, such as negative self-perception, pessimism, and black-and-white thinking. These distortions can affect a person's ability to accurately perceive their own behaviors and thought patterns, making it challenging to recognize dysfunctional traits.
Defense mechanisms: The mind can employ defense mechanisms like rationalization, projection, and denial to protect itself from uncomfortable truths. These mechanisms may prevent individuals from fully acknowledging their dysfunctional traits.
Complexity of behavioral traits: Identifying dysfunctional traits may require a deeper level of introspection and self-awareness. It's not as straightforward as recognizing the immediate consequences of substance use, which are often tangible and observable.
Impact on daily life: Substance addiction can have severe and immediate consequences that disrupt daily life, making it difficult to ignore the negative effects. In contrast, dysfunctional behavioral traits might not manifest in such overt ways, making them easier to overlook.
Addressing dysfunctional behavioral traits associated with mental disorders often requires therapeutic intervention, self-reflection, and sometimes, professional help. Encouraging self-awareness and destigmatizing mental health issues can facilitate open discussions and foster greater explicit learning about dysfunctional behaviors, leading to more effective coping strategies and treatment approaches.