The Psychology of Addiction

This accessible book takes a psychological approach to understanding addiction. It considers key questions and myths surrounding addition such as `how do people get hooked?' and `can you recover from addiction?' Using examples from popular culture, the book also draws on psychological and neuroscientific theories and sets addiction in a social context, comparing drug addiction with other types such as gambling and sex. It goes on to consider addiction recovery and different therapies such as mindfulness, suggesting a compassionate approach to understanding addiction may lead to changes in drug policy. It will be of interest to anyone looking for a psychological understanding of addiction.