What is Behavioral Addiction?
Behavioral addiction refers to a compulsive engagement in non-substance-related behaviors that activate the brain’s reward system in ways similar to drug or alcohol use. Despite the absence of a chemical substance, these behaviors can become habit-forming, difficult to control, and persist despite negative consequences to one’s health, relationships, or responsibilities.
Behavioral Addiction often co-occurs with substance use, especially cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine. However, it is not always addressed in traditional recovery or clinical frameworks.
Studies show 25–35% of adults in the young adult emerging age group report problematic smartphone or internet use.
Higher risk observed in those experiencing depression, ADHD, trauma, or high social media engagement.
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified usage patterns due to isolation and remote life.
Young adulthood (25–40): Balancing career, relationships, and parenting — tech overuse can be a form of escape or relief from stressors. Emerging adulthood (18–25): Risk-taking, identity exploration, peer pressure, emotional reactivity — all prime for technology overuse.
The only Behavioral Addiction that is included in the DSM 5 is Gambling Disorder:
According to the DSM-5, Internet Gaming Disorder is a condition that warrants further research — this opens the door to conceptualizing tech addiction as legitimate and measurable.
Consider Below the Estimated Prevalence of Addictions from SAMSHA 2023:
Technology addiction, often referred to as problematic technology use, is a compulsive or uncontrolled use of digital devices (smartphones, social media, gaming, streaming, etc.) that interferes with daily functioning, relationships, and mental health. The behavior itself stimulates the brain’s reward system similarly to drugs or alcohol.
Neuroscience & Mechanisms
- Dopamine Response: Social media “likes,” notifications, or gaming achievements trigger dopamine-reinforcing compulsive checking or scrolling behaviors.
- Variable Rewards: Platforms use algorithms and intermittent rewards (like slot machines) that hook users unpredictably.
- Prefrontal Cortex Delay: Emerging adults (18–25) are more susceptible due to continued brain development in areas of judgment and impulse control.
Psychosocial Impacts
Mental Health: Linked to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and loneliness.
Sleep Disruption: Blue light exposure and late-night usage disturb sleep cycles.
Social Isolation: Replaces face-to-face interaction with shallow digital engagement.
Work/School Dysfunction: Loss of productivity, procrastination, and burnout.
Harm Reduction for Behavioral/Technology Addiction:
Digital Detox Plans:
Timed breaks, screen-time tracking, and device boundaries.
CBT:
Identifies thought patterns that lead to compulsive digital use.
Mindfulness and Somatic Interventions:
Help reestablish body awareness and reduce impulse-driven tech use.
Psychoeducation:
Teaching users how tech manipulates attention and affects the brain.
Recognize
Technology as a coping tool—don’t villainize it.
Work collaboratively
To reduce harm: e.g., minimize use before bed, avoid “doom-scrolling,” build tech-free routines.
Tailor to individual needs:
For some, social media is vital for LGBTQ+ or immigrant community connection.
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