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Chapter 2 - From Exercise to Addiction

The Fitspirational Era of Image and Performance Enhancement

from Section 1 - From Exercise to Addiction: An Introduction to the Phenomenon

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 March 2023

By
Stefano Pallanti  and
Alice C. English
Edited by
Ornella Corazza  and
Artemisa Rocha Dores
Ornella Corazza
Affiliation:
University of Hertfordshire and University of Trento, Italy
Artemisa Rocha Dores
Affiliation:
Polytechnic Institute of Porto and University of Porto, Portugal
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Summary

This chapter begins by discussing the challenges of distinguishing between two very distinct concepts, namely passion and addiction, and goes on to consider some of the reasons why people may exercise. The common features that are shared by neurobiology of exercise and of addiction are then examined. The phenomenon of exercise addiction (EA), which may be regarded as belonging to the cluster of behavioural addictions, is discussed, and a number of different conceptualized models of the development of EA are described. Finally, several possible treatments that are more commonly used for other behavioural addictions are suggested as potentially being suitable for use in the management of EA. The need to focus on prevention strategies is highlighted, as is the importance of promoting a balanced way of life, by focusing on the importance of understanding and shaping the environment in which we live.

Keywords

addictionbehavioural addictionsexercise addictionhealthpassion
Type
Chapter
Information
The Body in the Mind
Exercise Addiction, Body Image and the Use of Enhancement Drugs
 , pp. 25 - 48
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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