By Clinton Sims, Clinical Psychologist

Addiction is defined as dependence on a behavior or substance that a person is powerless to stop. There are two classifications: substance addictions, which include alcohol, drugs, and smoking, and process addictions, which include gambling, spending, shopping, eating, and sexual activity. Many addicts have more than one vice. For some, multiple attempts are required in order to achieve total abstinence.

The primary focus in our society has been on the substance abuser. Substance abuse is often a symptom of deeper personal issues. From a psychological perspective, process abusers can experience more extreme fluctuations, resulting in depression, interpersonal difficulties and major financial difficulties. When a process-addicted person enters therapy, they are usually beyond the stage of denial that typifies the substance addicted. However, they continue to experience the fluctuations of mood and behavior, and relapse is expected. Another type of process addiction is those who are addicted to dysfunctional behavior and dysfunctional people. This type of addiction is difficult to treat, as exhibited by an inability to learn from negative consequences, an inability to alter thoughts and a tendency to repeat maladaptive behaviors.

Therapeutic treatment of the process addicted involves a critical analysis of the consequences of their actions, involvement from the family members who are negatively affected by their behavior, analysis of the repetitive behaviors that are maladaptive, and a focused attempt at engaging the client in a self-help program.

For those concerned about addictive behaviors, the first step is to be honest with yourself. Do you continue to associate with the same people or do the same things while achieving the same negative results? Do you go from one bad relationship to another, choosing the same kind of mate? If so, the next step is to avoid particular types of people and environments. This can be more difficult than it appears, but if you are determined to change, you can go to a self-help group where you can develop relationships with those recovering from your same issues. If sincere and honest with yourself, you are then on your way to recovery.

For more in-depth and personalized analysis, please explore one of our therapeutic assessments that screens for addiction and related behaviors.