Behavioral Addictions

Behavioral addictions, also known as process addictions, are understood as thought and activity patterns that individuals engage in that produce short-term reward and are continued despite negative outcomes. One such consequence, loss of control of the behavior, is a prominent feature of addiction. This failure to resist the urge to perform an action that is harmful to self or others extends beyond alcohol and other substance use disorders, widely understood as addictions. Behaviors currently recognized as behavioral addictions by national and international authorities are gambling and gaming. There is growing evidence that individuals predisposed to addiction may become addicted to exercise, food, love, sex, shopping, social media use, and work.

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