Development Research of the Protective Factor Model for Addiction: Focusing on Mencian Theory of Four Virtues and Four Sprouts

The purpose of this study is to develop a naturalistic protective factor model for addiction in consideration of Korean culture. The model presented in this study is based on the universal goodwill of mankind. In particular, it concentrates on the core of Mencian theory that human nature is fundamentally good, and so human beings possess natural inclinations towards goodness. And this study also focuses on the Four Virtues and the Four Sprouts, which are basis of Mencian theory that human nature is fundamentally good. The detailed goal of this study is, first, to review the universal protective factors for addiction consistent with Korean culture. Second, it is to investigate the correlation between Mencian philosophy and addiction. Third, it is to turn Four Virtues and Four Sprouts into protective factors for addiction. Fourth, it is to develop a protective factor model for addiction based on the Four Virtues and the Four Sprouts. Fifth, it is to verify the validity and usability of the developed research model. With this sense of purpose, this study proposes ‘Protective Factor Model based on the Four Virtues and the Four Sprouts for Addiction’. Next, this study asks to 12 experts related to addiction about the validity and applicability of the research model. The questioning method is a Delphi questionnaire survey based on the qualitative research methodology. Additionally, the research model is applied in the form of a preliminary survey to the practice field of addiction recovery. Finally, this study summarizes the research results and clarifies the study's implications and limitations. The results of this study are as follows. The protecvtive factor model based on Four Virtues and Four Sprouts for addiction is valid theoretically and contextually. If an appropriate practice methodology, such as a specific program is prepared, this research model can be used in the practice field of addiction recovery.