Definition: Addiction describes an uncontrollable need to keep repeating certain behaviors, in spite of the physical or psychological harm it causes. The addictive cycle usually begins with seeking pleasure or avoiding pain and this pattern is repeated until the behavior becomes very much out of control.

This term originated in the field of substance abuse to define the changes that occur when a user goes from experimenting with drugs to obsessively seeking their next 'high'.

Now some apply the term more broadly to include any repeated behavior that meets the criteria of being out of control, such as certain eating disorders and self-injurious behaviors.

It is not necessary to engage in a self-destructive behavior for an extended period of time in order to become addicted, some people are more susceptible that others. An addiction can be psychological, physical, or both. There is an obsessive focus on the pleasurable aspects the addiction provides and denial or minimizing of the negative consequences. Addictions are chronic and progressive, meaning that without some type of intervention it will continue to get worse.

Examples:

A teen who becomes addicted to cocaine may have physical cravings when the drug is not available to them, but will say they can 'take it or leave it.'

A troubled teen with binge eating disorder experiences intense feelings of shame after a period of over-eating. But rather than discouraging this behavior it fuels the compulsion to again use food in an attempt to control these feelings.

Articles Using the Term 'Addiction'

Understanding Dual Diagnosis in Troubled Teens
Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe a teen who is abusing drugs or alcohol and also has an underlying mental health disorder. When this combination is present it is difficult for a teen to heal until both problems are correctly identified and treated.

Drug Treatment Programs: Help for Teens Using Drugs
Outpatient drug treatment programs are a good place to start if you suspect your teen is using drugs or alcohol beyond the experimental use that can happen with teenagers. These programs specialize in evaluating teen drug use and providing treatment. They provide services while the teen lives at home and are the least restrictive settings for teens with drug problems.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy, often referred to as CBT, is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on making connections between thoughts, feelings and actions, based on the belief that when negative thought patterns are identified, positive changes in feelings and behavior can take place. Currently CBT techniques are being used to treat a wide range of problems in troubled teens including eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety and depression.

Which Professional is the Best Choice to Help Your Troubled Teen?
The process of finding the right professional to help your teen can be confusing, especailly when they are facing an addiction. There are numerous initials to decipher and differences in training and approach that are important to understand. Here's a road map to help you navigate this journey to finding the best mental health professional to work with your troubled teen.

Religious Based Residential Treatment Programs
Treatment programs for troubled teens based on religious teachings are similar to other residential teen treatment programs but with a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and learning principles based on faith. If your family is faith based, addiction treatment and help can be found here.

5 Truths About Teen Smoking
Parents often feel powerless against the tough issues teens face because they cannot control their teen's choices which often lead to addiction. While it is true that teens need to make their own choices, parents do have more influence than they think. Read through these five truths on teen smoking to become empowered about a tough choice your teen is facing everyday.

How Do I Know if My Teen Is Engaging in Self-Harm?
What are signs that will tell me if my teen is hurting herself? I just learned that a close friend of hers is in counseling for cutting. My daughter now spends most of her time alone in her room. Could she be deliberately hurting herself? Is she addicted?

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