[The concept of behavioral addiction and limits of the term addiction]. / Konzept der Verhaltenssüchte und Grenzen des Suchtbegriffs.

ABSTRACT

The numbers of persons with a prevalence for behavioral addiction are rising especially among the young. Psychiatrists and psychotherapists are still awaiting indications for diagnostic classification and treatment approaches. We discuss the nosological aspects and suggest categorizing gambling and excessive computer and internet use as behavioral addictions. In specific cases the addiction model can also be applied for excessive sexual behavior, compulsive buying and obesity.