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Considering the definition of addiction
Steve Sussman1, Alan N Sussman
1Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Soto Street Building, Room 302, 2001 N. Soto Street, Los Angeles, California 90032, USA. ssussma@usc.edu
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 11, 2011
Summary
This study defines addiction by identifying five core elements: seeking pleasure, preoccupation, temporary satisfaction, loss of control, and negative consequences. These components offer a framework for understanding addictive behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Defining addiction is complex, with ongoing debate surrounding its core components.
- A comprehensive literature search identified key elements contributing to the understanding of addictive behaviors.
Discussion:
- Addiction is characterized by five key constituents: appetitive effects, preoccupation, temporary satiation, loss of control, and negative consequences.
- These elements differentiate addictive behaviors from simple compulsions, providing a clearer conceptual framework.
Key Insights:
- The five identified elements offer a robust definition of addiction.
- Appetitive effects, preoccupation, temporary satiation, loss of control, and negative consequences are central to the concept of addiction.
Outlook:
- Further research is needed to address conceptual challenges in understanding addiction.
- Refining the definition and elements of addiction will aid in developing more effective interventions and treatments.
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