The Reward Deficiency Syndrome and Links with Addictive and Related Behaviors

There are multiple theoretical and empirical attempts to capture the shared routes of different substance-use disorders and other disorders due to addictive behaviors, thus conceptually integrating the conditions. One is the reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) model that provides a biopsychological framework for addictions. The RDS model argues that individuals with hypodopaminergic features need extra external stimulation to achieve positive feelings like satisfaction or pleasure. The model argues that the hypodopaminergic features are predisposed by genetic factors that are responsible for dopamine homeostasis. While there exists some support for the model, further systematic studies are needed to validate it. This chapter describes the key constructs of the RDS model and discusses their potential implications for addictions while also acknowledging possible critiques and weaknesses.