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Causes of addiction

Arrière-plan

December 7, 2022 Addictions

Psychosocial Workers

A person is more likely to become addicted at vulnerable moments. Addiction does not develop overnight; it is a process. 

4 causes of addiction 

1. Family history: 

Genetics determines 50% of a person's risk of developing an addiction. 

2. Lack of coping skills: 

Stress is a major indicator of addiction risk, as it can drive moderate users to use more regularly and become addicted.  

3. Negative thinking:

 Negative thinking, a cognitive process in which people tend to see everything in a negative light or by considering worst-case scenarios, can make a person feel bad about themselves, irritable, stressed, or dissatisfied with life. 

4. Anxiety disorder or depression:

 Approximately 15-30% of people who struggle with addiction also have an underlying anxiety or depression. 

Did you know?  


A variety of tests are available to assess addictive behavior. This process usually consists of two parts: a self-rating scale for the first stage of the test and a semi-structured interview for the second stage. 

Consult the file

Sources (in fench

Cairn.info
Institut national de santé publique du Québec