"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"

In this quote, Dick Van Dyke touches on the complex nature of dependency, highlighting both its mental and genetic components. Van Dyke recommends that individuals frequently deny their dependency by attributing their substance use to external stressors or situational aspects. This shows a typical psychological defense reaction where people justify or validate their habits to prevent challenging the reality of their dependency. The expression "it's stress this, it's this, it's that" indicates the myriad reasons or external reasons people use to rationalize their addictive behaviors, demonstrating the battle numerous face in acknowledging the real nature of their problem.

Furthermore, Van Dyke introduces the concept of a hereditary predisposition to dependency, recommending that some individuals may be more susceptible to developing dependences due to inherent hereditary elements. This concept aligns with contemporary research, which indicates that genetics can play a substantial function in addiction. Studies have shown that hereditary factors can influence how people react to compounds and how likely they are to develop addictive habits.

The hesitation in Van Dyke's speech, apparent in the duplicated usage of phrases like "I think" and "I actually think", suggests an internal conflict or evolving understanding of dependency. This might show an individual journey towards recognizing the diverse nature of addiction, including both genetic susceptibility and psychological denial. His declaration "some individuals end up being addicted and others don't" underscores the variability in individual actions to addictive substances, further supporting the concept of a hereditary component.

Overall, Van Dyke's quote encapsulates the double nature of dependency, where both hereditary and psychological aspects interaction. It works as a tip of the intricacy of addiction, promoting a more nuanced understanding that goes beyond shallow explanations. His words invite empathy for those fighting with dependency, urging an acknowledgment of the much deeper, typically unseen impacts at play.