The Addictive Personality
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - We call it an addictive personality. This is the personality that is associated with compulsive gambling. But it is also associated with drinking or drug use.
Many with addictive personalities can switch from one vice to another. In fact, so-called productive activities like work can also become an addiction.
Researchers have found evidence which suggests that alcohol and nicotine affect the brain in much the same way. What this really means is that people who have this type of personality have a dramatically increased risk of other isues.
It is estimated that being an alcoholic could double the risk of becoming a cigarette smoker.
There is a positive side. For instance, cigarette smoking and alcohol abuse might be able to be attacked simultaneously. Early work is focused on the role of amino acids in the brain and the part certain proteins might play in addictions.
