" I think most people will tell you that. They can go along and, while they’re denying that they are addicted, say it’s stress this, it’s this, it’s that. But I – it’s – I think – I really believe there is a gene. Some people become addicted and others don’t. "
- Dick Van Dyke

In this statement, Dick Van Dyke discusses his views on addiction, emphasizing that people often find it challenging to admit when they have a problem and tend to attribute their struggles to other factors like stress. He suggests that there might be an underlying genetic component influencing why some individuals become addicted while others do not.

Van Dyke delves deeper into the complexities of addiction by pointing out how denial plays a significant role in people’s perception of their own issues. By attributing their difficulties to external pressures or temporary conditions, they can avoid confronting the reality of their addictive behaviors. This perspective highlights the nuanced relationship between personal responsibility and biological predispositions. The idea that certain individuals may be more genetically inclined towards addiction raises questions about how society approaches treatment and prevention strategies for such disorders.

Dick Van Dyke is a renowned American actor, comedian, singer, and dancer known for his work in television and film over several decades. He has starred in numerous beloved productions and has received multiple awards throughout his career, including an Academy Award nomination and multiple Emmy Awards. His insights on addiction come from both personal observations and professional experiences within the entertainment industry, where issues of substance abuse are not uncommon.