To begin our discussion of the effects of ACEs on behavior addictions, we first need to define behavior addictions.
What Are Behavior Addictions?
When we think of addiction, we typically think of addiction to substances like alcohol or other drugs.
However, research has suggested that people can become addicted to various behaviors and experience similar symptoms and effects as substance addictions. Currently, researchers are looking into these behavior addictions and coming up with ways to diagnose and treat them.
The signs of a behavior addiction include: (source)
- The behavior, thinking about it, making arrangements to engage in it, or recovering from it takes up most of one’s time.
- Depending on the behavior to cope with negative emotions and feel normal
- Continuing to engage in the behavior despite experiencing harm because of it
- Having trouble cutting down on the behavior despite wanting to stop
- Neglecting important obligations like work, school, or family to engage in the behavior
- Having withdrawal symptoms, like irritability or depression, when trying to stop the behavior
- Minimizing the problem
So far, researchers have proposed the following behavior addictions:
- Exercise addiction
- Food addiction
- Gambling addiction
- Internet addiction
- Sex addiction
- Porn addiction
- Tattoo addiction
- Video game addiction
- Work addiction
- Potentially others
Some research suggests that 11.1% of the global population experiences some form of behavior addiction, with the following prevalences for more specific behavior addictions: (source)
- Gambling addiction: 3%
- Exercise addiction: 7%
- Gambling addiction: 2%
- Shopping addiction: 2%
- Sex addiction: 4%
- Internet addiction: 6%
- Social media addiction: 1%
- Food addiction: 21%
- Smartphone addiction: 7%
Research and definitions of these behavior addictions are still in the early stages. Even though this research is in its early stages, some studies have already suggested that exposure to ACEs can factor into the development of behavior addictions.
As we go through this research, it is essential to remember that just because someone has a high ACE score does not mean they are doomed to develop these outcomes. And if a person has developed a particular negative outcome due to ACEs, they are not necessarily doomed to have it forever. Healing and resilience are possible, and many factors can prevent these outcomes from happening in the first place, and many factors can lead to their healing if they have occurred.
The Effects of ACEs on Behavior Addictions
Online Addictions
The Internet and technology are becoming increasingly prevalent. With that, the potential for Internet, phone, and social media addiction has become higher.
Additionally, the use of pornography has skyrocketed in recent years as the Internet has become more widespread. One study suggests that 58% of Americans have viewed pornographic materials at least once, around 27% have watched it in the last month, and 11% watch it daily (1). Additionally, around 1% of men and 3% of women in one study reported an addiction to it (2)
Various studies have suggested links between childhood trauma and these Internet addictions. For example, one study found that the probability of Internet addiction increased as people reported more childhood trauma (3). Another study specifically looking at pornography addiction found links between this addiction and exposure to childhood trauma (4)
Daydreaming Addiction
Maladaptive daydreaming is constant daydreaming that can cause dysfunction in one’s daily living. One study found that this maladaptive daydreaming was significantly associated with ACE exposure (5)
Food Addiction
Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder that involves frequent, recurring binge eating episodes that cause difficulties in one’s life. Those with binge eating disorder tend to have a higher ACE score than those without it (6).
Additionally, another study found that food addiction was associated with exposure to childhood abuse and emotional neglect, as well as childhood bullying (7).
Exercise Addiction
Exercise is essential for maintaining physical health. In exercise addiction, people continue exercising despite severe injury or negative impacts on other aspects of life.
Two studies have found that exposure to childhood trauma is associated with a higher risk of exercise addiction, and these links were due to problems with emotion regulation (8, 9)
Conclusion
Despite research on behavior addictions being in the early stages, multiple studies have already demonstrated that higher ACE scores can increase the risk of behavior addictions.
There is hope for healing and resilience following exposure to ACEs. If you or someone you know may be suffering from these negative effects of ACEs, please visit the healing resources page to begin your healing journey.
To learn more about the effects of ACEs, please visit this page.