Addictive Personalities

Addictive Personalities

We've all heard of the expression 'addictive personalities', but is this just a way of excusing ourselves of our actions, choices and behaviours? Many reports have documented that there are in fact certain personality types, environmental factors and circumstance that can increase the likelihood of a dependency to develop, though scientific studies have so far failed to prove any conclusive results. However, the findings that do exist shall be explored.

Types Of Personality

Stressed Or Anxious Personality. These people find it difficult to cope very well during times of stress and are more likely to turn to alcohol or substances to help them manage.

The Passive-Aggressive People in this category have an exterior that displays a calm and peaceful personality, but inside they hide their anger and find it difficult to manage their anger very well.

The Self-Punitive Personality These people hide their anger well and show an outer personality that is calm and gentle. They often turn to substance abuse and alcohol to help them cope.

The Anti-Social These are the types of personalities that cannot manage their anger and frustration virtually at all. They often have short sharp tempers, do not like their efforts to go unnoticed. They are most likely to turn to alcohol and drugs to help manage their emotions and frustrations.

The Immature This group of people have a very immature outlook and can be childlike in their personality. They like to brag about minor achievements and enjoy gratification for it. They often find it hard to limit their behaviour and can often go 'over the top'.

Personality Traits

Behaviour The behaviour of an addict is often compulsive and does not rationalise or quantify their actions and consequences. Increased and extreme repetition of actions is common as it provides feelings of being on a 'high' and increases adrenalin production giving the 'feel good' factor.

Stress Stress is one of the leading causes of alcohol and drug addiction as it is these substances that people turn to, to help them cope. Some people manage their stress better than others and find safer methods of working it out of their system, whilst others mask their stress with substances.

Responsibility. Many addicts show that they are unable to accept full responsibility for their actions, which is also a sign of immaturity. They are less able to see their faults and understand the seriousness of their behaviour.

Circumstantial Findings Some studies have provided statistics that show an increase in drug and alcohol dependence among men, and that single men were the most at risk, whilst married women were the least likely.

Identifying A Weakness

If you have previously overcome an addiction and recognise any of these traits in yourself, it is advisable to refrain from indulging in any of the activities that often lead to addiction. Many people are able to drink or gamble for example and set limits for themselves and enjoy these activities sensibly. If you believe you have an addictive personality, you are probably more likely to develop a dependency.

Though scientific research has so far, not produced any concrete evidence to support claims of an addictive personality, many confessed addicts do display similar traits, circumstance or background.

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