Addiction is a contentious medical term, derived from a Latin term signifying legal obligation, and has evolved in definition since the 16th century. Historically, the American Psychiatric Association favored the term "substance use disorder" until DSM-5 introduced "Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders." Addiction encompasses aspects beyond substances, including behaviors like gaming and shopping. The biology of addiction relates to disruptions in dopamine transmission, resulting in compulsive behaviors and withdrawal symptoms. Behaviors indicative of addiction often lead to prioritized compulsions over personal responsibilities, reflecting a necessity for a clearer understanding of addiction in treatments.
The term 'addiction' originated in the 16th century to denote an abnormal attachment, typically to alcohol, derived from Latin for legally binding someone into a debt.
Addictive substances alter the function of the brain's reward system directly, while some natural rewards can cause comparable changes in neurobiology.
Addiction is often defined by symptoms like compulsions and obsessive thoughts, rather than biological mechanisms, resulting in a contentious use of the term in medical contexts.
Behavioural addictions represent a grey area for treatment, primarily due to limited evidence surrounding their diagnosis and management.
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