Addictions manipulate emotions, whether through substance abuse or behavioral addictions like technology. Emotional coping is at the core of all addictions, as they serve to mellow out or activate emotions. However, with behavioral addictions, emotional circuitry is dulled, not eliminating emotions but causing individuals to lose sight of them. This suppression of emotions can lead to repercussions in various areas of life, even though the individual might be unaware of it. The amygdala, responsible for emotions like fear, can still influence the brain's functioning despite one's lack of awareness of it. Research by Dr. Volkow suggests that individuals susceptible to addiction have lower emotional awareness due to their brains being wired differently compared to non-addicted individuals.
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