Behavioral addictions in addiction medicine: from mechanisms to practical considerations (2016)

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

Banz BC1, Yip SW1, Yau YH2, Potenza MN3.

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