A review of addictive behaviors of Greek Cypriots: Profiles of associated problematic behaviors

Abstract

This study presents a systematic recording of addictive behaviors in the Greek-speaking population in Cyprus. Furthermore, it presents the participants’ perceptions about the presence of addiction-related dimensions such as negative consequences, negative emotional context, positive emotional context, search for stimulation or pleasure, loss of control, and cognitive salience. Finally, the study extracts specific profiles of people who develop an addictive behavior through the extrapolation of common factors behind groups of associated addictive behaviors. A total of 175 participants took part in an online survey. Descriptive and factor analyses were used to answer the research questions. The results showed little prevalence of illicit drug use but high prevalence of Internet use and smoking. In addition, the association of addictive behaviors with positive emotions was confirmed, as well as the relatively low recognition of the negative consequences of those behaviors. Finally, the emergence of potential profiles of individuals who develop addictive behaviors appears to be possible.

Keywords:

• Addictive behaviors
• addiction-related dimensions
• profiles