Addiction

Addiction is an inability to stop a repeated and compulsive use of an activity, behavior, or substance in spite of negative consequences.

Addiction becomes apparent when a person doesn't acknowledge the negative consequences, explains it away, or acknowledges it and yet is unable to stop.

The hallmark of all addictions is that the person has lost control and is experiencing negative consequences as a result.
(Cloud & Townsend, God Will Make A Way, p. 220-1)
14 April 2014