Addiction refers to the state or condition of repeating a particular behavior where the need or compulsion is strong compared to the habituation such as drug-taking. Thus the definition of addiction has been formalized and extended to include: a strong compulsion, the habit of increasing dose, and the production of physical dependence. While addiction is often equated with drugs abuse and other ordinary addictions, the concepts is often used in reference to an ever-increasing range of activities, hence addictive behaviors which often don’t involve substances at all such as sex, the internet, gambling and even anorexia nervosa.
Until recently, the study and treatment of drug problems were associated with the concept of addiction: individuals with drug addiction issues have problems because of their addiction. Addicts, however, are compelled by a psychological need to be in the constant state of taking drugs, experiencing horrible physical as well as psychological symptoms when they try to stop and constantly take the drugs despite the symptoms due to their addictive character. Their addictive behavior, however, will transform their physiology for the worse, they will commit criminal activities to pay for the drug, neglect their social responsibilities and roles and even harm the people around them.
Physiologists, therefore, are faced with the challenge to provide necessary treatment for the addictive behavior of such victims. Marlatt & Witkiewitz (2009) further contends that physiologists are well suited to asses and provide the desired treatment for the challenges and difficulties as well as facilitating the behavioral changes required for the optimal results. Furthermore, psychologists as researchers are often confronted with the role of advancing our understanding in regards to psychological factors associated with coping up with, adjusting to the necessary psychological challenges and interferences.
References
Marlatt, G., & Witkiewitz, K. E. (2009). Addictive behaviors: New readings on etiology, prevention, and treatment. American Psychological Association.
