Taking An Online “Addictive Personality” Test: What Can It Tell You?

The term “addictive personality” is not an official diagnosis, but it is sometimes used casually to refer to an assortment of personality traits and other factors that may be associated with an increased addiction risk. If you’re curious about possible traits of an “addictive personality” or other aspects of addiction in your life, ongoing education and online therapy can be helpful tools to help elevate your quality of life. Below, we explore how addictions and symptoms can develop, what insights an online addictive personality test may or may not be able to give you, plus how to find more effective forms of support.

What does "addictive personality" mean?

Despite its common use, the term or diagnosis of an addictive personality is not one that’s generally recognized as a formal, classified personality disorder. The term is seen by many as a colloquial phrase that stems from the idea that certain traits can make individuals more prone to mental health conditions, such as substance use disorder.  

Common characteristics associated with an addictive personality

The most common characteristics that can be associated with the concept of an “addictive personality” type might include the following: 

• dishonesty 
• urges to manipulate for personal gain 
• impulsivity 
• thrill-seeking behavior 
• selfishness 
• irritability
• interpersonal conflict 

Proponents of this idea suggest that identifying these traits in an individual can improve the likelihood of preventing substance use disorder, or at least limiting possible causes through environmental factors. A greater observance and awareness of this possible personality profile can also empower people to be screened for possible addictive personality traits, possibly prompting many to seek early intervention and support prior to the full establishment and expression of substance use disorder. 

That said, it is important to note that although some individuals experiencing substance use disorder can be prone to some of the traits listed above, these components are not generally present in all individuals who may have an addiction, or who meet the criteria for a formal substance use disorder diagnosis.

Use vs. addiction: Common behaviors that can become harmful 

The terms substance addiction and substance use are often used interchangeably to describe an individual’s challenges with substances like alcohol or illicit drugs. There are differences between the two, however, particularly from a clinical standpoint.

Substance use examples

Consider this example: A person using a substance can be using it in either a healthy or unhealthy way. Unhealthy ways to use alcohol, for example, can include binge drinking on a Saturday night until a person is in a position where they may harm themselves (or others). Alternatively, alcohol consumed in moderation can enhance one’s experience at social gatherings, offering a pleasant pastime for many. 

Generally speaking, someone who simply uses a substance generally has not lost control of their life or faculties. Someone who is addicted to a substance, however, may have difficulty abstaining—for example, someone experiencing alcohol addiction may experience urges to consume it at a harmful level or in a harmful way.

Behavioral examples

Beyond the use of an addictive substance, there are a variety of other behaviors that can become harmful when done in an unhealthy way, which can often mean when done excessively regardless of the negative consequences. Some examples of these potentially harmful behaviors can include the following:

• Compulsive eating
• Excessive pleasure seeking (such as through sex)
• Compulsive shopping or gambling
• Excessive consumption of pornography 

Is it worth it to take an online addictive personality test?

Because an addictive personality is not generally seen as a formal diagnosis, legitimate confirmation and testing may require more in-depth analysis than you’ll find from an online quiz. 

What a quiz can and cannot tell you

If you do decide to take an online personality test, you might consider using the results to identify possible areas of support that in-person or online therapy could assist you in, rather than a formal confirmation of a diagnosis. An online quiz cannot accurately identify the presence of a mental health condition on its own, but taking one may help you reflect on any psychological symptoms you are experiencing and areas where you might benefit from further support.

When to consider professional evaluation

In a general sense, online tests should generally not be used as a replacement for a formal diagnosis from a licensed and trained professional. You can enjoy a higher quality of life and possibly more effective treatment by allowing your clinician or psychiatrist to diagnose and support you, rather than an online quiz. If you are experiencing symptoms related to addiction or other mental health concerns, consider reaching out for professional support.

Recognizing possible addictive personality traits and behavioral patterns

It is important to reiterate that an “addictive personality” is not a formal condition or official diagnosis, but there may be several personality traits and behavioral patterns that may make a person more likely to develop addictive tendencies.

Some common traits and patterns include the following:

• Poor impulse control 
• Desire for instant gratification 
• Poor judgment
• Tendency toward sensation-seeking and risk-taking behaviors
• Difficulties with emotional regulation
• Obsessive tendencies

Mental health conditions that may overlap

In some cases, there may be symptoms of other mental health conditions that have some overlap with some of these traits, such as bipolar disorder and antisocial personality disorder. For instance, impulsivity, poor judgment, and risk-taking behaviors can be common symptoms of mania in individuals with bipolar disorder. Meanwhile, individuals with antisocial personality disorder may often engage in reckless and even criminal behavior. If you are experiencing any symptoms that are disrupting your life, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for support, as only a qualified clinician can provide a diagnosis.

What can cause addictive tendencies? 

There can be a variety of potential risk factors that may increase a person’s risk for developing addiction. These factors include genetic predisposition and environmental influences such as childhood trauma.

Genetic predisposition and family history

Research suggests that a person’s genetic makeup can increase their risk for developing addiction. Recent findings from a study by the National Institute of Health suggest that “substance use disorders are heritable” and can be influenced by complex interactions “between multiple genes and environmental factors.” Family history of substance use disorder can also increase a person’s risk. 

Environmental influences and social context

There are also various environmental factors that can increase the risk of addiction, such as childhood trauma or abuse, peer influence, and the loss of family support.

Symptoms of addiction: What to watch for and when to seek help 

There are distinct actions and symptoms that can be commonly associated with addiction for many, and understanding the range of presentations can positively impact one’s quality of life, possibly indicating areas of need to them or a point in their experience when they may benefit from therapeutic intervention. 

Addiction symptoms

These often common symptoms can include:

• Compulsive behavior: This can be noted in a range of areas in the person’s life, rather than just with the substance in question. 
• Out-of-control feelings: People may create rules for themselves, such as “Just one more,” or “just a few more minutes.” They might also develop rules such as “Only on the weekends,” or “only a few times a month.” This generally promotes healthy consumption of the substance or occurrence of the action in question. Conversely, in addiction, people might break their rules repeatedly—as the mechanism to keep impulses at bay may no longer be effective.
• Obsessive thoughts: These thoughts can pop up frequently and without warning, and may not respond to an individual’s effort to move on to other thoughts.
• Intense cravings: People who live with an addiction or substance use disorder may experience extreme and overwhelming cravings for the item or behavior they desire—or for other things that might be unrelated. 

Potential consequences of addiction

Addiction can severely affect various aspects of a person’s life and may bring a host of negative consequences both in the short term and long term, though the exact effects can depend on the type of addiction and the individual, among other factors. In the short term, for instance, excessive alcohol use may lead to adverse consequences such as injuries, car crashes, violence, or even alcohol poisoning. Long-term consequences might include difficulties at work, strained relationships, and various negative health outcomes, such as increased risk of heart disease, liver disease, and stroke.

How to reduce addiction risk and support lasting recovery

Addiction treatment is approached using a variety of methods, including lifestyle changes, peer support and therapy—both in an online or in-person format. Those living with the disorder may also choose a unified approach, using all three in their recovery journey. Evidence-based therapies can help one to get to the root of an addiction and possibly address any traits or trauma that can be feeding the addictive cycle. Peer support can aid many in accountability and a higher quality of life, and lifestyle changes such as getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and setting healthy boundaries can promote sustained positive change and lasting recovery.

Getting support through BetterHelp 

Many can receive qualified help through online therapy platforms like BetterHelp, which may help alleviate time restraints, financial barriers, and fear of stigma that can be associated with traditional face-to-face therapeutic intervention. 

Additionally, online therapy can also be invaluable for people struggling with addiction, as they can book a session in real-time, which is a perk that may be limited to other therapeutic options. The ability to speak in real-time with a licensed therapist can help someone overcome an urge to resort to addictive behaviors when they otherwise would have had to wait to book an in-person appointment. 

Online therapy for addictive behaviors

Establishing a gap between a stimulus and an addictive response is generally considered to be a key part of addiction recovery for many. BetterHelp’s ability to possibly elongate this pause can give online therapy participants a major advantage compared to in-person counseling.

Online therapy has been suggested to show promise in helping people overcome addictive behaviors. In one study, researchers found information that suggested that online interventions were effective in reducing alcohol and cannabis consumption in the given test group, possibly promoting an efficient means to a higher quality of life. Many believe that online therapy could provide a safe space for many to explore their potential for growth past the state of addiction, possibly prompting many to seek a healthier future.