Choose 2 Examples Ofbehavioral Addic
Due by 1200 est tomorrow (4/30/20) Choose 2 examples of behavioral addictions . Describe them , and see if you can find any stats on who is most affected. What are some signs of behavioral "addiction" as opposed to just heavy use? What are some potential treatments for behavioral addiction? Citations are expected.
In your responses, you may want to explore why you think these things are becoming more prevalent than they were several decades ago. Do you have any personal experience (or know someone) with these conditions? How do they affect one's life? Does/should society treat these conditions as seriously as we do substance addictions?
Paper For Above instruction
Behavioral addictions are compulsive behaviors that significantly impair an individual's life despite the absence of a substance chemically altering the brain. Unlike substance use disorders, which involve physical dependencies on substances such as alcohol or drugs, behavioral addictions are characterized by an overpowering urge to engage in specific activities, often accompanied by a false perception of control or inability to stop. This essay explores two prominent examples of behavioral addictions—gambling addiction and internet addiction—examining their characteristics, prevalence, signs differentiating them from heavy use, potential treatments, and societal implications.
Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite adverse consequences. It often manifests as increased time and money spent on gambling, preoccupation with gambling, and unsuccessful efforts to cut back. According to the American Psychiatric Association, gambling disorder affects approximately 0.4% to 1% of the adult population worldwide, with higher prevalence in young adults and males (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Research indicates that prevalence is rising partly due to the proliferation of online betting platforms, making gambling more accessible than ever before (Ladouceur et al., 2015).
Signs distinguishing gambling addiction from heavy gambling include persistent thoughts about gambling, difficulty controlling impulses, withdrawal symptoms when not gambling, and continued gambling despite financial or relational problems (Merkouris et al., 2019). Treatment options involve cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT), which aims to change maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, along with support groups like Gamblers Anonymous. Pharmacological interventions, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have shown some efficacy in certain cases (Hodgins & Dickson, 2017).
Internet Addiction
Internet addiction, also referred to as problematic internet use or compulsive internet use, involves excessive concern or anxiety about internet access, leading to neglect of daily responsibilities and social relationships. It is particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults, with studies estimating that 6% to 10% of internet users experience problematic use (Kuss et al., 2014). The rise in internet addiction correlates with increased internet penetration and the proliferation of social media, online gaming, and streaming platforms (Young, 2018).
Signs of internet addiction include preoccupation with online activities, withdrawal symptoms such as irritability or anxiety when offline, unsuccessful attempts to reduce internet use, and neglect of personal, social, or occupational obligations (Shapira et al., 2003). Treatment strategies often involve cognitive-behavioral therapy, digital detoxification, and establishing healthier online habits. Family therapy is also utilized, especially among adolescents (Kaptsis et al., 2016).
Prevalence and Societal Trends
These behavioral addictions have become more prevalent than in previous decades, largely driven by technological advances, increased accessibility, and changing social norms. The rise of online gambling and social media platforms has created new avenues for compulsive behaviors. Additionally, societal stressors and mental health awareness have contributed to seeking help or acknowledgment of these conditions (Brand et al., 2019).
Personal and Societal Impact
Personally encountering or knowing individuals with behavioral addictions reveals profound impacts: relationship breakdowns, financial hardships, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Society's recognition and treatment of behavioral addictions are evolving, with growing efforts to treat them with the same seriousness as substance use disorders. However, stigma and lack of awareness still hinder effective intervention and prevention strategies.
Conclusion
In sum, behavioral addictions like gambling and internet addiction represent significant modern challenges affecting diverse populations. Recognizing their signs, understanding their impact, and expanding effective treatment options are crucial steps toward mitigation. As technology continues to advance, society must adapt its responses to these behavioral health issues, ensuring they receive proper attention equivalent to substance-related disorders.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
Brand, M., Young, K. S., & Laier, C. (2019). Online dependency: An emerging research area. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 22(3), 159-161.
Hodgins, D. C., & Dickson, L. (2017). Strategies for the treatment of gambling disorder. International Gambling Studies, 17(2), 253-266.
Kaptsis, K., Kuss, D. J., & Billieux, J. (2016). Cyberbullying and problematic internet use: A systematic review. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 5(2), 119–137.
Kuss, D. J., Lopez-Fernandez, O., & Griffiths, M. D. (2014). Internet addiction and problematic internet use. Current Psychiatry Reports, 16(4), 442.
Ladouceur, R., Derhake, M., & Filiatrault, D. (2015). Internet-based gambling: Risks and opportunities. Journal of Gambling Studies, 31(4), 1373-1381.
Merkouris, S. S., Bowden-Jones, H., & Grant, J. E. (2019). Gambling addiction: Overview and clinical considerations. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 80(5), 18-22.
Shapira, N. A., et al. (2003). Problematic Internet use: Report of a brief intervention. Annals of Clinical Psychiatry, 15(4), 263-267.
Young, K. S. (2018). Internet addiction: Diagnosis, epidemiology, and treatment. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 7(4), ■509.