[Neurobiology and psychology of addictions]

The clinical observation of patients that are addicted to drugs allows the distinction between physical dependence and psychic dependence (addiction). Empirical research has made important breakthrough in the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development of dependence and opens new therapeutic options. Neurobiologic findings concerning dopaminergic brain reward circuit provide a better insight on the incentiv aspects of drug seeking. The present article is a review of current models of addiction with a specific focus on the link between biological aspects and psychological observations.