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The behavioral model of addiction focuses on the idea that certain behaviors, or actions, trigger a response in the brain called the reward circuit. When this happens, the brain responds with a feeling of elation and often continues to respond to similar stimuli. This can result in continued engagement in triggers and lead to an individual developing an addiction. The behavioral model of addiction is one of the most well-known and widely discussed models of addiction today because it explains many commonalities between different types of addictions. It also leads to beneficial insights that advance our knowledge of prevention programs and recovery from addictions. This article provides an overview of this model along with specific examples relevant to substance abuse and drug addiction treatment that you may find helpful.

The body reacts to stress in a variety of different ways. Some people might experience temporary anxiety, while others might develop phobias or panic attacks. Alcohol and other drugs can trigger physical reactions as well. When someone regularly ingests the same substance, their body develops a tolerance for it. This means that they need more of the substance to feel the effects that they originally experienced. This can lead them to continue consuming the substance even though they know that it is bad for them.