An addiction is a type of habit that is very difficult to break – attempts to break the addiction will bring withdrawal symptoms (often including continued cravings and physical symptoms). Examples of common addictions are alcoholism, nicotine addiction, drug addiction, sex addiction/pornography, workaholism, problem gambling, overeating, and smoking. Addictions can be physical or psychological. Addiction at its root is a mental disorder – it can also be considered a case of ‘disordered thinking'.

What is an Addictive Habit?

Addictive habits are different from non-addictive habits in their ability to produce a positive feeling while at the same time getting rid of a negative one. A non-addictive habit only gets rid of a negative feeling. The positive feeling that every addiction produces is the feeling of being in control. The negative feeling that it gets rid of is the feeling of being controlled. [In addition, feeling in control through the practice of the addiction leads to a feeling of serenity.]

Can Anyone Develop an Addiction?

Yes, under the ‘right' circumstances.

What are the ‘Right' Circumstances?

A chronic feeling of being controlled is behind every addiction. The people who are more likely to become addicted to one behavior or another are those who feel controlled by life to a greater degree than other people. These individuals typically have experienced an event or a series of events during which they felt at the mercy of somebody else or of some event. Often, this experience of having felt totally controlled took place early in life. Perhaps it was the experience of living with an alcoholic parent. Or having a teacher who called us stupid. Or even growing up with a classmate who made us feel we weren't as "good" in some way as we "should" have been.

Are Addictions Genetic?

There is, of course, the possibility that addictions--or at least the susceptibility to addictions--are inherited.

Source: ©1997, 1998 John Philip Smith (Alcholics Anonymous)