Behavioral addictions: An update

What is it about?

This article addresses recognized and potential behavioral addictions: gambling disorder, gaming disorder, compulsive sexual behavior disorder, compulsive buying-shopping disorder, and problematic use of social media. After an introduction to the current classification according to DSM-5 and ICD-11, psychological and neurobiological mechanisms of behavioral addictions are summarized. The clinical presentations of the five (potential) behavioral addictions are described in the main sections, including prevalence estimates, clinical characteristics, diagnostic assessments, and treatment approaches. Finally, key challenges and future directions, including public health considerations and treatment optimization, are presented.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Behavioral addictions are common disorders that often go undiagnosed and untreated. Given the frequent co-occurrence with other mental disorders and the association with poorer treatment outcomes, active screening and treatment is indicated.