Addictive personality

The term "addictive personality" refers to a proposed set of personality traits that may increase an individual's risk of developing addictive behaviors. While it is not formally recognized in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5, this concept suggests that traits such as impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and emotional dysregulation may contribute to the development or maintenance of addiction. These behaviors extend beyond substance use to gambling, internet use, compulsive eating, and shopping.

The validity of addictive personality as a construct remains controversial, with some researchers arguing that these traits may emerge as a consequence of addiction rather than serve as predictors, and that the term itself lacks a consistent definition. Despite this controversial status, studies have found links between certain personality profiles and specific types of addiction, suggesting that a more nuanced relationship exists. Genetic factors are also recognized as significant contributors to addiction vulnerability, with research estimating that 40% to 70% of individual variation in addiction risk is heritable.