| Abstract: | ![]()
Despite the proliferation of discussion on the problem of addiction, little agreement obtains as to the nature of the addictive problem and implications for psychotherapy of the addictions. A thematic analysis of the addictive experience is conducted. The addictive experience is characterized by intensity of feelings that cannot be rendered symbolically via language. Out of this mode of experiencing emerges 3 phenomena: (1) an alteration in the sense of the movement of time; (2) a sense of alienation and lack of sense of connection to others; (3) a lack of sense of agency in the world and inability for self/affect regulation. It is suggested that a relationally based psychotherapeutic approach is best suited for the problem addiction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
