Addictive Personality Types

We all know them. They are our family members, our friends and our coworkers--people whose lives are controlled by an addiction. Their disease is complex and treatment programs are often unsuccessful. According to "American Scientist," fewer than one third of alcoholics experience recovery after two years of treatment. Many in the mental health community believe that identifying the most vulnerable personality types can help in the fight against addiction.

Stressed or Anxious Personality Type

• For some, stress leads to addictive behavior.

  Some people are more vulnerable to addiction when experiencing high levels of stress. They lack healthy coping skills and choose to avoid their problems by turning to alcohol, gambling and other quick fixes. Unable to tolerate uncomfortable feelings for any length of time, they search out immediate remedies for their emotional pain.

Antisocial Personality Type

• Antisocial people act impulsively to get the instant gratification they crave. Because they do not feel they fit in society, they defy its norms by lying, stealing and manipulating. Instead of learning from their mistakes or feeling remorse for the pain they have caused, antisocial people play the victim, pointing the finger of blame everywhere but at themselves.

Immature Personality Type

• Immature personality types never seem to reach adulthood.

  The immature personality type is seen in people who have never outgrown the self-centeredness of childhood. They tend to stay tied to their parents rather than take responsibility for themselves. Though they have accomplished little in life, they are still boastful. Their insecurity makes forming strong friendships difficult, which results in isolation and a reliance on the addiction for company.

Passive-Aggressive Personality Type

• Passive-aggressive people don't shout or use physical intimidation. In fact, they often look like the calmest people in the room. But inside they feel out of control and are filled with a deep anger they do not want to acknowledge. Because they are unable to express their feelings in healthy ways, people like this resort to subtle forms of retaliation, such as sabotaging the efforts of those around them or masking insults with professions of love and concern.

Self-Punitive Personality Type

• The self-punitive personality type is aware of his anger but is afraid he may become violent and hurt someone. Instead of working on the cause of his unhealthy feelings, he represses them. His addiction is a form of self punishment because he is fully aware of the negative consequences at home and at work, but he sees no other way to relieve his inner tension.