How does one define the complex and often-misunderstood phenomenon of addiction?Previously associated only with the problematic use of chemicals, addiction also encompasses dysfunctional patterns of certain behaviors such as gambling, gaming, or exercising (Grant, Potenza, Weinstein, & Gorlick, 2010). The termaddictionincludes both substance-use disorders and behavioral disorders with addictive components. The term substance use disorder refers specifically to addiction related to drug use.

Addiction, whether to chemicals or behaviors, is part of a broad continuum (Doweiko, 2019). At one end of the continuum is total abstinence or the non-problematic use of chemicals or patterns of behavior. The moderately problematic use of chemicals or patterns of behavior, known asabuse, is found in the middle of the continuum. At the far end is the destructive use of chemicals or patterns of behavior that characterize addiction. A person can move from the abuse stage on the continuum back to the non-problematic stage with reasonable effort. However, as individuals progress into the addictive end stage, a great amount of motivation, effort, and professional guidance are required to change.

For this Discussion, you explore some of the key motivational concepts related to addiction and addictive behaviors including psychological theories of addiction, how drugs are similar or different from natural incentives in motivation, and the role of stress. First, select and respond to one of the following topics for your Discussion assignment post this week. Identify your selected topic in the first line of your post. 1. Positive and negative reinforcement- Explain the roles of positive and negative reinforcement in addiction and provide an example of each. 2. Motivation - Describe the motivations involved in addictive behavior and provide examples. 3. Stress - Explain the role of stress in addictive behaviors. Provide an example. 4. Behavioral Addictions- Explain whether or not behavioral addictions are the same as substance addictions and support your answer. Then, post your own discussion question for the class that promotes critical thinking related to your chosen topic. Remember, questions that promote critical thinking are not factual questions, existential questions, or those that require a simple yes or no response. You must also provide a rationale and background for the question as illustrated in the example provided in Learning ActivityDeveloping Discussion Questions That Promote Critical Thinking.