Addiction

Definition

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain.

Related terms

Reinforcement:

This is a term used in psychology to refer to anything stimulus which strengthens or increases the probability of a specific response following a particular behavior.

Craving: This refers to an intense desire for the rewarding effects of the addictive substance.

Relapse: This is when someone returns to using their substance of choice after a period of not using it.