process addiction
Compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors despite negative consequences, such as gambling, shopping, or sexual behaviors.
Full Definition
Process addictions, also called behavioral addictions, involve compulsive participation in potentially rewarding activities that become problematic and interfere with daily functioning. Unlike substance addictions, process addictions involve behaviors rather than chemical substances, but they activate similar brain reward pathways and can produce comparable psychological dependence. Common process addictions include gambling, gaming, shopping, sexual behaviors, and internet use. Addiction counselors must understand that these conditions share neurobiological similarities with substance use disorders and require specialized treatment approaches. The DSM-5-TR currently recognizes gambling disorder as the only formally classified process addiction, though research continues on other behavioral patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective: 'process-addiction treatment.'
In Context
- "The client's process addiction to online gaming required treatment approaches similar to those used for substance use disorders." — Assessment report
- "Understanding process addiction helped explain why the client maintained compulsive behaviors despite achieving sobriety from alcohol." — Case conceptualization