behavioral addiction

Non-substance dependence disorder

Behavioral addiction is compulsive engagement in rewarding activities despite negative consequences—the same pattern as substance addiction, but without drugs.

Gambling is the classic example, but the concept extends to gaming, shopping, sex, and internet use.

The person feels unable to stop even as relationships, finances, or health deteriorate: His behavioral addiction to online poker cost him his marriage.

Related

mindfulness training · impulsivity · thrill seeking · instant gratification · emotional dysregulation · stressors · craving · shopping · reward system · cognitive distortion · dopamine · cold turkey · workaholism · support groups · psychoeducation · peer pressure · family dynamics · reinforcement

Opposites
dependence type

behavioral addictiondrug addiction

Compulsive need for intoxicants

substance use disorder · alcohol addiction · nicotine addiction · substance abuse · drug dependence

behavioral control

behavioral addictionself-control

Ability to restrain impulses

self-regulation · impulse control · self-discipline · moderation · willpower

psychological health

behavioral addictionmental wellness

Healthy state of mind

psychological health · emotional balance · adaptive behavior · recovery · recreational use

Family

behavioral, addiction, behavior, behave, behaved, behaving, behaviorism, behaviorist, behaviors

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Negative · Rated PG