This book covers all type of addictions, from substance abuses and eating disorders to gambling, pornography, and shopping. This two volume set contains frank and factual information about symptoms, causes, effects, prevention, and treatment of substance abuse - alcohol, nicotine, and drugs - and of 'behavioural addictions' such as eating disorders, pathological gambling, and compulsive sexual activity. Including the most up-to-date research, entries trace the history of the debate over whether addiction is a choice or a disease, and explain how genetic and biological findings support the disease concept while lifestyle choices affect the course of the disease. Graphics and discussions of the brain structures that support this self-reinforcing mechanism illustrate why treatments that obstruct the pathway are showing such promise.The volumes offer an historical perspective including biographical information on pioneers in addictions research and treatment. Some material is presented in 'fact boxes' and other graphically pleasing formats. This single-source reference includes lists of support groups, organizations devoted to addictions research and treatment, and suggestions for obtaining further information. Entries include alcohol; alternative treatment; anorexia; antidepressants; betablockers; blended model of addiction; brain chemistry; cigarettes; denial; disease model of addiction; exercise addiction; Food and Drug Administration; gambling addiction; Jung, Carl G.; methadone; neurotransmitters; overdose; pornography; recreational drugs; relapse; serenity prayer; shopping addiction; Temazepam; vicodin; withdrawal; and, Women's Christian Temperence Union and more.