Indeed, becoming dependent on viewing online videos can represent a form ofbehavioral addiction.
Behavioral addictions are defined as non-substance addictions in which a person becomes dependent on certain behaviors or actions.
Aside fromgambling disorder, psychologists disagree on whether behavioral compulsions areactual addictions.
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A person might want to watch videos at inappropriate timesfor example, in the middle of a date.
The difficulty with this pop in of behavior is that it often starts slowly and builds over time.
For example, you might watch videos for a specific purpose at first.
Then, you might watchwhen you’re boredor alone.
Before you know it, several hours have passed, and you haven’t even gotten out of bed.
The wide variety of videos also means you’re unlikely to get bored.
If your interest in one genre wanes, the recommendation algorithm will inevitably suggest videos suited to your interests.
This can make it hard to know when to stop.
This definition encompasses the pathological pursuit of rewarding behaviors such as watching YouTube.
Such behavior becomes compulsive and continues even when it has harmful consequences in a person’s life.
Is It an Addiction?
It might affect your work performance, too.
They can help you with treatment options and strategies to help you manageand maybe even eliminateyour YouTube video-watching habits.
Therapy can help treat any other underlying mental health concerns that might be contributing to your behavior.
A Word From Verywell
Watching YouTube can be entertaining and informative.
Even better, talk to a mental health professional for advice.
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Robbins TW, Clark L.Behavioral addictions.Curr Opin Neurobiol.
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American Society of Addiction Medicine.Definition of addiction.
