6
Brain,
Neuroscience
and Addiction
z
A
s a brain scientist, I find it fascinating the way the term ad-
diction is used in our culture. This is especially true in what
is known as Behavioral Addictions, Sex Addiction, Food
Addiction, Video Game Addiction, Coupon Addiction,
and Internet Addiction. If the opportunity to interact, indulge, or con-
sume something exists, doing so in excessive quantities is thought of
as an addiction. However, is the term addict being used in a cavalier
manner with respect to behaviors?
A few terms to consider when dealing with addiction may be in
order. Suffice it to say that use constitutes whenever something (i.e.,
a drug or behavior) is utilized to meet some need. Misuse constitutes
whenever something is utilized to meet a need, although it isn’t the
best way to meet that need. Think of the person who might use as-
pirin to promote muscle growth. Aspirin is a pain-killer, not a muscle
builder, hence it would be a misuse of the drug. If, however, the use
of something begins to cause damage to the body or a person’s life
experience (e.g., within a family, other relationships or in the work-
place), the presence of this damage would constitute abuse—some-
thing bad is happening because of the way it is being utilized.
William M. Struthers., Ph.D.
