Behavioral Addiction
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Yes, it is a real term people use in 2024.
Yes, it is related to digital wellness, digital addictions, etc.[3][4][5]
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Nov 12, 2024 09:56 PM
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Behavioral Addiction
[bih-heyv-yuh-ruhl uh-dik-shuhn]
What Is Behavioral Addiction?
A pattern of compulsive engagement in non-substance behaviors (like social media, gaming, or shopping) that creates reward-seeking cycles similar to drug addiction, despite negative consequences to daily life.
Word Origins:
Combines "behavioral" (relating to actions and habits) from behaviorism psychology (1920s) + "addiction" (from Latin "addictus" meaning "devoted to"). The term gained prominence in the 1990s as psychologists began recognizing non-substance dependencies.
Signs and Symptoms
- Loss of control over the behavior
- Continued engagement despite negative consequences
- Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
- Increased time spent on the behavior
- Neglect of other activities
- Failed attempts to quit
Digital Context
In our hyperconnected world, behavioral addictions often manifest through technology use:
- Compulsive social media checking
- Endless video streaming
- Gaming marathons
- Constant email refreshing
- Online shopping sprees
Related Terms
- Digital Dopamine: The reward chemical released during tech use that can lead to addictive patterns
- Screen Addiction: Compulsive use of screens despite negative life impacts
- Internet Gaming Disorder: Excessive and compulsive video game playing
- Social Media Addiction: Uncontrollable urge to use social media platforms