Behavioral Addictions

In this chapter, the behavioral addictions of gambling disorder, sex, compulsive buying, internet, and exercise are presented along with their relationship to substance abuse and family functioning. It appears there is much overlap between these behavioral addictions and substance use disorders. Behavioral addictions encompass time consumed pursuing the addiction, excessive and repeated use of engaging in the behavior, and lack of ability to stop or change the behavior despite negative consequences. Therapists should be aware of the behavioral addictions mentioned earlier, as well as how substance use often accompanies them. Treatment for behavioral disorders includes many evidence-based approaches such as 12-step self-help groups, family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and pharmacological interventions. Because of the similarities between the brain pathways of substance use disorders and behavioral addictions, and the fact that both disorders often occur together, research must be continued in this area to effectively treat these disorders.