What Is Addiction?
Definition of Addiction
Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.
The ABCs of Addiction
Addictive behavior can be characterized by five specific features:
- Inability to Abstain
- Behavioral Control Impairment
- Craving
- Diminished Recognition of Significant Problems
- Emotional Dysfunction
Sources
- American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)
- Reclaiming Families Seminar Workbook