Behavioral addictions in addiction medicine: from mechanisms to practical considerations

Prog Brain Res. 2016:223:311-28. doi: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.08.003. Epub 2015 Nov 23.

Abstract

Recent progress has been made in our understanding of nonsubstance or "behavioral" addictions, although these conditions and their most appropriate classification remain debated and the knowledge basis for understanding the pathophysiology of and treatments for these conditions includes important gaps. Recent developments include the classification of gambling disorder as a "Substance-Related and Addictive Disorder" in the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and proposed diagnostic criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder in Section 3 of DSM-5. This chapter reviews current neuroscientific understandings of behavioral addictions and the potential of neurobiological data to assist in the development of improved policy, prevention, and treatment efforts.

Keywords: Addiction; Gambling disorder; Gaming; Internet; Neuroscience; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Behavior, Addictive / diagnosis
  • Behavior, Addictive / physiopathology
  • Behavior, Addictive / therapy*
  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders*
  • Gambling / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Neurosciences
  • Video Games / psychology