Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex and multifaceted behavioral disorders that have significant implications for individuals and society. The DSM-5 classifies SUDs as disorders characterized by a loss of control over substance use, continued use despite harmful consequences, and a preoccupation with the substance. Although there is no single addictive personality, there is moderate-to-strong support for the role of personality traits in addiction. Personality traits, particularly neuroticism, conscientiousness, and impulsivity, play a crucial role in the development and persistence of these disorders. Examining how these traits influence addiction provides valuable insights into the psychological underpinnings of substance use and offers potential pathways for targeted interventions.
Substance Use Disorders
The DSM-5 describes substance use disorders (SUDs) as behavioral disorders marked by a loss of control, persistent use despite serious negative consequences, and a preoccupation or obsession with acquiring, using, and recovering from the substance's effects (APA, 2022).
Jaffe (1980) anticipated this perspective by defining addiction as “a behavioral pattern of drug use, characterized by overwhelming involvement with the use of a drug (compulsive use), the securing of its supply and a high tendency to relapse after withdrawal. In addition, it is characterized by craving, withdrawal and tolerance.” (p. 536)
Alcohol is cunning, baffling, and powerful (The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous).
There Is No Single Addictive Personality
One of the significant challenges in endorsing the concept of an addictive personality is the absence of a definitive set of traits that can be universally applied to all individuals with addictions. Although traits like impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and neuroticism have been repeatedly associated with addiction, not all individuals who possess these traits develop addictive behaviors. Conversely, not all individuals with addictions exhibit these traits. This variability suggests that addiction cannot be neatly categorized as stemming from a singular personality profile.
Research has shown that addiction is influenced by a diverse array of factors, including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and individual experiences. This multifactorial nature of addiction means that while certain personality traits may increase vulnerability, they are not deterministic. For instance, an individual with high impulsivity may never develop an addiction if they are in an environment that provides strong social support and lacks exposure to addictive substances. Conversely, a person with low impulsivity might still develop an addiction due to significant environmental stressors or genetic predispositions. This complexity underscores the difficulty of pinpointing a single personality type that is predisposed to addiction (Koob & Volkow, 2010).
Research indicates that no single personality type is predisposed to addiction. Instead, addiction involves a complex interplay of psychological, social, familial, and biological factors (Berglund et al., 2011; Franques et al., 2000). Studies have shown that a range of personality disorders can be present in individuals with substance dependence, but no single disorder is a strong predictor of addiction outcomes (Franques et al., 2000).
Contradictory Findings Regarding Personality Traits
The evidence linking specific personality traits to addiction is not only complex but, at times, contradictory. While some studies have identified impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and neuroticism as risk factors, other research has produced inconsistent results, particularly when examining different types of addictions or different populations. For example, while impulsivity is strongly associated with substance use disorders, its link to behavioral addictions, such as gambling or internet addiction, is less clear and may depend on the specific nature of the behavior involved (Verdejo-García & Pérez-García, 2007; Zilbermann et al., 2018).
Moreover, the relationship between personality traits and addiction is often moderated by other factors, such as age, gender, and cultural background. For instance, the role of sensation-seeking in addiction may be more pronounced in adolescents, whose brains are still developing and who are naturally more inclined to seek out novel experiences. In contrast, the influence of neuroticism might be more significant in adults who use substances as a coping mechanism for chronic stress or emotional instability. These inconsistencies suggest that while personality traits can contribute to addiction risk, they do so in complex and context-dependent ways (Kotov et al., 2010).
Impulsivity
Impulsivity is a personality trait characterized by a tendency to act on urges and desires with little forethought or consideration of the potential consequences. Individuals with high impulsivity often make decisions quickly without fully evaluating the risks and benefits, and they may engage in immediately gratifying behaviors that are potentially harmful in the long term. This trait is closely linked to the ability to control one’s behavior and resist temptations, and it plays a significant role in the development and maintenance of addiction.
The relationship between impulsivity and addiction is well-documented in the scientific literature. Impulsivity is considered one of the core risk factors for the onset of substance use disorders, and it is associated with both the initiation of substance use and the progression to more severe forms of addiction. Research has shown that individuals who exhibit high levels of impulsivity are more likely to experiment with drugs and alcohol, often at an earlier age, and are more prone to developing patterns of substance abuse (de Wit, 2009).
One of the key ways in which impulsivity contributes to addiction is through the impaired ability to delay gratification. Individuals with high impulsivity tend to prioritize immediate rewards over long-term benefits, which can lead to repeated substance use despite the negative consequences. For example, a person with high impulsivity might choose the immediate pleasure of drug use without fully considering the potential for addiction, health risks, or the impact on their social and professional life. This preference for immediate gratification is often reinforced by the effects of addictive substances, which can provide powerful and rapid rewards that are particularly appealing to impulsive individuals (Evenden, 1999).
Moreover, impulsivity is not only a risk factor for the development of addiction but also its persistence and relapse. Highly impulsive individuals are more likely to struggle with maintaining abstinence once they have developed a substance use disorder. Their tendency to act on impulse can lead to difficulties in adhering to treatment plans, resisting cravings, and avoiding triggers for substance use. This makes impulsivity a significant challenge in the treatment of addiction, as it can undermine efforts to achieve and sustain recovery (Moeller et al., 2001).
Sensation-Seeking
Among the various personality traits associated with addiction, sensation-seeking stands out as a particularly potent vulnerability factor. Sensation-seeking is characterized by a desire for novel, complex, and intense experiences, and individuals who score high on this trait are more likely to engage in behaviors that provide such stimulation, including substance use. The link between sensation-seeking and addiction is well-documented, with numerous studies demonstrating that high sensation-seekers are at greater risk for developing addictions, particularly to substances like alcohol, nicotine, and stimulants (Zuckerman, 2007).
While sensation-seeking is a significant risk factor, it is not sufficient on its own to cause addiction. Environmental factors, such as peer influence, availability of substances, and societal attitudes towards drug use, also play crucial roles in determining whether a high sensation-seeker will develop an addiction. Additionally, some sensation-seekers channel their need for stimulation into non-addictive but still high-risk activities such as extreme sports, which suggests that sensation-seeking does not inevitably lead to addiction but rather increases vulnerability under certain conditions. Moreover, sensation-seeking appears to be irrelevant to continued drug use once dependence has developed (Franques et al., 2000).
Neuroticism
Neuroticism is characterized by emotional instability, anxiety, moodiness, and a propensity to experience negative emotions such as anger, guilt, and depression. Individuals high in neuroticism are more likely to perceive situations as threatening or stressful and tend to react to stress in ways that exacerbate their emotional distress. This trait has been linked to a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and, importantly, substance use disorders.
The relationship between neuroticism and addiction is well-supported by research, which suggests that individuals with high levels of neuroticism are more likely to use substances as a coping mechanism for their emotional distress. For example, they may turn to alcohol or drugs to alleviate feelings of anxiety or to escape from negative emotions. This use of substances as a form of self-medication can lead to a cycle of dependence, where the temporary relief provided by the substance reinforces continued use, eventually leading to addiction (Kotov et al., 2010).
Moreover, neuroticism has been shown to predict the development of substance use disorders in longitudinal studies, which follow individuals over time to observe how their personality traits influence behavior. For instance, individuals high in neuroticism have been found to have a greater likelihood of initiating substance use and transitioning from use to abuse or dependence. This evidence supports the idea that neuroticism may play a causal role in the development of addiction by predisposing individuals to use substances as a way to manage their chronic emotional distress (Terracciano & Costa, 2004).
Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness is a trait associated with self-discipline, organization, dependability, and the tendency to plan and act with forethought. Individuals high in conscientiousness are generally more capable of controlling their impulses, adhering to social norms, and avoiding risky behaviors. In contrast to neuroticism, conscientiousness is typically seen as a protective factor against addiction. High conscientiousness is associated with lower rates of substance use and addiction, as individuals with this trait are more likely to avoid behaviors that could lead to harm, including drug and alcohol use (Roberts et al., 2009).
Conscientiousness can act as a buffer against the development of addiction, even in individuals who may be exposed to significant stress or who possess other risk factors. For example, studies have shown that individuals with high levels of conscientiousness are less likely to engage in binge drinking, drug use, or smoking. When they do use substances, they are more likely to do so in a controlled and moderate manner. This suggests that conscientiousness may help individuals resist the temptations and social pressures that often lead to substance use (Bogg & Roberts, 2004).
The protective effect of conscientiousness is further supported by evidence from genetic studies, which indicate that the trait is heritable and that individuals with higher levels of conscientiousness may have a genetic predisposition towards more disciplined and goal-directed behavior. This genetic influence might contribute to a reduced likelihood of engaging in addictive behaviors, highlighting the potential causal role of conscientiousness in preventing addiction (Kotov et al., 2010).
Challenges of Addictive Personality Research
One major issue is the lack of a clear definition, making it challenging to operationalize and study (Khan et al., 2018). Addiction is a multifaceted issue, influenced by biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors, and reducing it to a single personality type oversimplifies the problem. Furthermore, correlation does not imply causation, and it is unclear whether certain personality traits cause addiction or are a consequence of it.
Moreover, many studies rely on self-reported data, which may be subject to biases and limitations. For instance, individuals struggling with addiction may be more likely to report certain personality traits due to the social stigma associated with addiction. Therefore, it is essential to consider these limitations when interpreting the results of studies examining the relationship between personality and addiction.
Conclusion
The concept of an addictive personality is far from straightforward. The lack of a single, definitive personality profile that predisposes individuals to addiction, the contradictory findings on the role of personality traits, and the specific but complex influence of personality traits highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of addiction.
Rejecting the concept of an addictive personality is important for clinicians and their patients for several key reasons. First, it shifts the focus from a deterministic and potentially stigmatizing view of addiction to a more individualized and holistic understanding of the disorder. The notion of an addictive personality suggests that certain individuals are inherently predisposed to addiction based on a single personality pattern alone. This perspective can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where both clinicians and patients might believe that addiction is an inevitable outcome for certain individuals, reducing motivation for treatment and recovery efforts.
By rejecting this concept, clinicians are encouraged to consider the full range of factors that contribute to addiction, including genetic, environmental, psychological, and social influences. This broader approach acknowledges that while certain personality traits may increase vulnerability to addiction, they do not determine a person’s fate. Instead, addiction is seen as a complex interplay of multiple factors, each of which can be addressed through tailored interventions.
For patients, rejecting the idea of an addictive personality can reduce feelings of shame and hopelessness. If addiction is not viewed as an inherent flaw in one’s personality, patients may feel more empowered to change their behavior and engage in treatment. This perspective also promotes the idea that anyone, regardless of their personality, can recover from addiction with the right support and interventions.
Furthermore, rejecting the concept of an addictive personality allows clinicians to focus on behaviors that can be modified through therapy rather than labeling a person’s entire personality as problematic. For instance, clinicians can work with patients to develop strategies for managing impulsivity, improving emotional regulation, or increasing conscientiousness.
Rejecting the concept of an addictive personality matters because it fosters a more personalized, hopeful, and effective approach to treating addiction. It encourages clinicians to look beyond personality labels and address the broader and more modifiable factors contributing to a patient’s substance use disorder, ultimately supporting more successful outcomes in treatment and recovery. Although there is weak empirical support for a singular addictive personality, there is moderate to strong support for the role of personality traits in addiction. Traits such as neuroticism, conscientiousness, and impulsivity significantly influence the likelihood of developing an SUD, as well as the course of the disorder. Neuroticism predisposes individuals to use substances as a coping mechanism, conscientiousness acts as a protective factor, and impulsivity drives both the initiation and continuation of substance use. These findings underscore the importance of considering personality in the assessment and treatment of SUDs and in developing prevention strategies that address these underlying traits. This Real Genius episode was drawn by Dani S@unclebelang on Fiverr.com.
Glossary
conscientiousness: a personality trait characterized by self-discipline, organization, dependability, and the tendency to plan ahead. Individuals with high conscientiousness are generally more capable of controlling their impulses and avoiding risky behaviors, making them less likely to develop substance use disorders.
dopamine system: A network of brain regions involved in the release and regulation of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with reward, pleasure, and motivation. The dopamine system plays a central role in reinforcing addictive behaviors and is particularly relevant to the study of impulsivity and sensation-seeking in addiction.
DSM-5: the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association, which provides standardized criteria for the diagnosis of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders.
impulsivity: a personality trait characterized by the tendency to act on urges without considering the consequences. High impulsivity is strongly associated with an increased risk of developing substance use disorders, as it leads individuals to prioritize immediate rewards, such as the effects of drugs or alcohol, over long-term well-being.
neuroticism: a personality trait marked by emotional instability, anxiety, and a propensity to experience negative emotions such as anger, guilt, and depression. Individuals with high neuroticism are more likely to use substances as a way to cope with their emotional distress, which increases their risk of developing substance use disorders.
prefrontal cortex: a brain region involved in executive functions, such as decision-making, impulse control, and planning. Dysregulation in the prefrontal cortex is linked to impulsive behavior and a reduced ability to resist the urges associated with substance use.
sensation-seeking: a personality trait characterized by a desire for novel, complex, and intense experiences. Individuals high in sensation-seeking are more likely to engage in behaviors that provide immediate and powerful rewards, such as drug use, making them more vulnerable to addiction.
substance use disorder (SUD): a behavioral disorder defined by the DSM-5 as involving a loss of control over substance use, continued use despite significant adverse consequences, and a preoccupation with obtaining, using, and recovering from the substance. SUDs encompass a range of addiction-related behaviors and symptoms that impact various aspects of an individual’s life.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.), text revision [DSM-5-TR]. American Psychiatric Association.
Berglund, K., Roman, E., Balldin, J., Berggren, U., Eriksson, M., Gustavsson, P., & Fahlke, C. (2011). Do men with excessive alcohol consumption and social stability have an addictive personality? Scandinavian Journal of Psychology, 52(3), 257-260. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9450.2010.00872.x
Bogg, T., & Roberts, B. W. (2004). Conscientiousness and health-related behaviors: a meta-analysis of the leading behavioral contributors to mortality. Psychological Bulletin, 130(6), 887–919. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.130.6.887
de Wit H. (2009). Impulsivity as a determinant and consequence of drug use: a review of underlying processes. Addiction Biology, 14(1), 22–31. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1369-1600.2008.00129.x
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Franques, P., Auriacombe, M., & Tignol, J. (2000). [Addiction and personality]. L'Encephale, 26(1), 68-78.
Jaffe, J. H. (1980). Drug addiction and drug abuse. In A. G. Gilman, L. S. Goodman, & A. Gilman (Eds.). Goodman and Gilman’s the pharmacological basis of therapeutics. Macmillan.
Koob, G. F., & Volkow, N. D. (2010). Neurocircuitry of addiction. Neuropsychopharmacology: Official Publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 35(1), 217–238. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2009.110
Kotov, R., Gamez, W., Schmidt, F., & Watson, D. (2010). Linking "big" personality traits to anxiety, depressive, and substance use disorders: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 136(5), 768–821. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0020327
Roberts, B. W., Walton, K. E., & Bogg, T. (2009). Conscientiousness and health across the life course. Review of General Psychology, 13(3), 229-240. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.9.2.156
Terracciano, A., & Costa, P. T., Jr (2004). Smoking and the Five-Factor Model of personality. Addiction, 99(4), 472–481. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2004.00687.x
Verdejo-García, A., & Pérez-García, M. (2007). Profile of executive deficits in cocaine and heroin polysubstance users: common and differential effects on separate executive components. Psychopharmacology, 190(4), 517–530. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-006-0632-8
Zilberman, N., Yadid, G., Efrati, Y., Neumark, Y., & Rassovsky, Y. (2018). Personality profiles of substance and behavioral addictions. Addictive Behaviors, 82, 174-181. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.03.007
Zuckerman, M. (2007). Sensation seeking and risky behavior. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/11555-000
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