Common Signs of an Addictive Personality
Have you ever wondered why other people are able to control themselves when doing things or taking in something like, for instance, an alcoholic beverage? Some people can only have a glass or two, while others feel the need to drink more. You may be able to play a few levels of Candy Crush a time, while your friend ends up playing the game up until the next day, every day!
While there are a lot of factors that come to play when it comes to addiction, studies have shown that people with addictive personalities are most susceptible. So, how do you know if you have this personality?
What is Addictive Personality?
This is a set of personality traits that make a person more likely to get addicted to something – drugs, alcohol, food, exercise, gambling, material things, pornography and the like. However, understand that an addictive personality is not an actual psychiatric diagnosis, because there is not one specific personality type that is prone to addiction. Personalities are very complex and that several factors may come to play to make one more prone to developing an addiction.
Weak or Lack of Commitment to Values and Goals
The person jumps from one passion or goal to the other as impulse strikes. Also, the person does not conform to the goals that society values. Although it is quite difficult to combat this trait since it is unfair to let someone remain forever static, one needs to do an honest and careful evaluation of current goals and interests before jumping ship.
Impulsive Behavior
This is acting without thinking of the impact of the action. The person simply can’t resist the activity or hobby. Although everybody succumbs to temptation once in a while, a person who regularly engages in such behavior is exhibiting impulsivity.
In relation, a person may also exhibit compulsive behavior which is the engagement in an activity without regarding its negative consequences.. Impulsive and compulsive behaviors are indicators of an addictive personality.
Sensation-Seeking
This means that the person constantly seeks a new experience such as sources of adrenaline, new travel spots, new food and flavors, and the like. The constant desire to try out new things may lead to use of alcohol, drugs and other substances that may eventually result to addiction and abuse.
Social Alienation
Your constant jumping from one goal to another, non-conformity to societal goals and values, and one’s impulsivity and compulsivity may sometimes lead to social alienation and loneliness. If you lack consistent social connections or interactions, then it may be difficult to form long-lasting bonds or relationships. This will also result to an even poorer control of impulses which can therefore lead to use and abuse of substances.
Negative Self-Worth
When a person does not value oneself, then there is nothing left to protect, nurture and care for. Negative self-image may also be accompanied with penchant mood swings
All these are signs of an addictive personality that makes you very vulnerable to addiction. So, if you feel that you or someone you care for is headed down that dark alley, seek the light and the help you need before the situation becomes complicated, and treatment becomes difficult. Nip it at the bud!
