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Addictive Behaviors

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Addictive Behaviors

Addictive Behaviors

Posted by MCARadmin in Life 23 Dec 2022

Here are some thoughts about addictive behaviors. Different addictions can play out differently in different people, but the addictive mind set does start with a person’s negative concept of themselves. They may have feelings of worthlessness, unloved, unlovable, alone, disregarded, devalued, inadequate, shame, guilt, rejection, false guilt, feelings of powerlessness or helpless. These core concepts are part of the person’s woundedness. The individual then tries to bring something into the system to make them feel better and for different people it can be different things. Some people bring in alcohol, drugs, gambling, perfectionism, people pleasing, anger, lust, pornography, sex, anger, eating disorders, compulsive behaviors, etc.

 

Found in the limbic system, there are neurons that are responsive to dopamine which is a reward pathway. This area of the brain is instrumental in the addictive process. When a reward follows a behavior, the behavior is reinforced and more likely to be repeated in the future. When punishment follows a behavior, it is less likely to be repeated in the future.

 

There will need to be some consequences which are reasonable which can be imposed by the individual or by another when unhealthy out of control behaviors are acted out. An example of logical consequences if the negative behavior continues might be the following. If I misuse social media, I will delete any triggering person from my contacts and stay off social media for a month or so. If the behavior still continues then I will delete my social media account indefinitely until six months of sobriety are maintained.

 

There are many types of addictions such as pornography, drugs, alcohol etc. so the consequences will differ. A recovery Action Plan is needed not to be punitive but designed to help and counter any positive reinforcement your addiction may elicit. It is vital to the recovery process that consequences are put in place either self-imposed or otherwise.

 

1 Corinthians 10:13 “…But when you are tempted, God will also provide a way out so that you can endure it”.
Mathew 26:41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak”.

 
If you need an action plan and help for yourself or a loved one give us a call.

 

Christian Counseling of Arkansas
870-935-4102
Laura Hodges, LPC