Behavioural Addictions

Question 1

trends in beh addiction research

Answer 1

large inc in publication in recent years

steps:
1) based on anecdotal obsv, consider targeted beh addictive a priori
2) dev screening tool using SUD criteria
3) determine prevalence in community
4) determine whether typical risk factors are assoc w/ new disorder
5) show processes involved in sub use and targeted beh are neurologically similar

Question 2

concept creep (horizontal and vertical)

Answer 2

concept creep: gradual expansion of psych’s concepts of harm and pathology
- horizontal (qualitatively new concepts, like adding binge eating disorder, gambling disorder)
- vertical (capturing less extreme forms, like how only need 2 symptoms for SUD instead of 3)

Question 3

2 cognitive distortions of gambling

Answer 3

illusion of control - thinking uncontrollable outcome is in your control (im good at slots)

gambler’s fallacy - if something doesn’t happen for a while, it must happen soon (im due for a win)

Question 4

5 characteristics of compulsive shoppers

Answer 4

• search beh (quick, impulsive decisions)
• overspending
• budget awareness
• cred card use
• emotional impact (no guilt)

Question 5

2 types of addictive beliefs

Answer 5

• permissive beliefs: justify, minimize consequences “one more time won’t hurt”
• anticipatory beliefs: expectation that sub use will lead to pleasure

Question 6

how many relapse in one year

Answer 6

40-60% in first year
- after 5 years of being substance free, risk drops to 15%