What are similar characteristics to addiction to drugs with addiction to a behavior such as gambling or the internet?

Answer 1

well i don't believe addiction the the internet is possible. personally i think its pretty dumb that people claim they are addicted to the computer. but anyway, gambling addiction is real and those addicted to gambling end up in rehab right with the alcoholics and herion addicts. some of the characteristics they all share is they all seek instant gratification; they are all chasing a bigger and better high (or win for gamblers); they all try to justify their behavior somehow, with drug addicts doing drugs is they only way they can function, with gamblers they are trying to build a better life for their families by winning money, etc; they all ignore the consequences to their actions because they feel justified; most addicts tend to have an extreme self hatred and they are ashamed of it; and every addict never wants to quit more than when they are high (or winning for gamblers). that's when they feel good, therefor they feel they will be okay no matter what and they don't need to do it anymore. of course, it never works that way. that's when they rationalize, ok just one more time and i'll quit, just one more big win and i won't have to do this anymore, i just wanna get high one last time- but it's usually never the last time. they all put feeding their addiction above all else, although they may not want to, that becomes the most important thing. hope this answered your question.