Many theories attempt to explain the complex phenomenology of addiction, some of which are outlined on the slide. These various approaches to explaining addiction are not mutually exclusive, and it seems likely that different parts of separate theories might best explain certain addictive behaviour under certain conditions.[1] A common theme throughout addiction theory is that the initial behaviour is positively reinforced, beginning a cycle of repetition so that the behaviour becomes habitual and compulsive.[1]
Reference:
[1] Sadock BJ, Sadock VA, Ruiz P (eds). Kaplan & Sadock’s Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry, 10th edition. Wolters Kluwer, 2017.
[2] Van Ree JM. Endorphins and experimental addiction. Alcohol 1996; 13 (1): 25–30. [Please supply]