The addiction has hijacked the brain. There is a learning process in addiction for instance dopamine adds to the pleasure principle, and also has a role in memory and learning. Two major factors that turn liking something specific into becoming dependent on it. Dopamine interacts with glutamate which takes over the reward-related learning in the brain system. A system such as this is important in maintaining a healthy life needed to survive with reward and pleasure. Addictive behaviors or substances are able to stimulate the reward circuit which in turn overloads it. This type of exposure to addictive acts motivate the individual to try and find this type of pleasure. This rewarding feeling dulls over time causing a weakened sense of pleasure known as tolerance. In all addictions it is found that the initially desired act or substance will no longer give them the same amount of pleasure. This is when compulsion sets in. The memory of this effect, and feeling of need to recreate it continue forcing the individual to recreate these feelings. Major parts of the brain such as the amygdala and hippocampus hold information dealing with environmental cues related with the wanted effect, so these feelings will be located once again. The memories of these effects are intense cravings. The cravings are a conditioned response in the addiction. Cravings also lead to a relapse …show more content…
Behavioral addictions also known as process addictions include work, exercise, gambling, sex and even video games. Research has shown that individuals may suffer from multiple addictions towards both a substance or a behavior. Each addiction can range in severity causing treatments to be very difficult. This is known as co-morbid factors which are usually followed with anxiety, and depression. “Sexual addiction is best described as a progressive intimacy disorder characterized by compulsive sexual thoughts and acts.” (..herkov.) Just like a drug addiction the behavior has to increase over time to be able to have the same results. Sometimes these behaviors only include compulsive masturbation or use of pornography. This isn 't always the case because for some it can include illegal activities such as voyeurism, rape and exhibitionism. This is not to say that all sex addicts become sex offenders about 55% of convicted offenders can be considered addicts. Society all together sees sex offenders as having a need for power or control. The changes in the reward system has shown a greater understanding that powerful sex drives motivate these offenses. This type of addiction can lead to arrest, financial problems, broken relationships, and health risks. In society the number of people engaging in unusual sexual practices such as pornography or escort