The Addiction of Obsessions and Compulsions Across the Lifespan

The Addiction of Obsessions and Compulsions Across the Lifespan

by

L.T. Force, Ph.D.

Gerontologist

I am a Professor of Psychology, teaching a course titled: ”Addictions Across the Lifespan”. I created this course 30 years ago - and on a regular basis it is offered to undergraduate students. I have an interest in this topic - on both a personal and professional level. As I tell my students:“all behaviors occur within family system”. In my Casework course I ask students to construct a 3-Generation Genogram* to look for family patterns.

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Genogram*

A genogram is a visual representation of a person’s family tree, history and relationships. It provides detailed information on the dynamics between family members, as well as their medical histories. Genograms are actively used in various fields, such as medicine, social work, psychology, genealogy, and education. (ChatGPT)

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The power and value found in a Genogram is the ability to analyze and identify cross-generational family system patterns, i.e., health related concerns, trends found in how emotions  are expressed, evidence of mental health behaviors (anxiety, depression, schizophrenia….etc,) and /or addictive compulsive patterns (OCD)….etc.

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What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disorder marked by uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions), repetitive and excessive behaviors (compulsions), or both. OCD symptoms can begin any time but usually start between late childhood and young adulthood.

NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health)

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd#:~:text=updates about OCD-,What is OCD?,late childhood and young adulthood.

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Obsessions and compulsions are powerful forces - shaping human behavior in profound ways. Whether it is the irresistible urge to check a phone, engage in gambling, or perform repetitive rituals, compulsions can manifest as a form of addiction, impacting individuals across their entire lifespan. While some compulsive behaviors may seem harmless, others can interfere with daily life, relationships, and well-being. Understanding how obsessions and compulsions evolve from childhood to old age provides insight into the ways addiction can take root in different life stages. (There has always been the debate regarding what drives these behaviors, i.e., genetics or environment….and that debate continues.)

Across the Lifespan: Obsessions and Compulsions:

Compulsions in childhood often present as repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety or gaining a sense of control. Many children experience transient compulsive tendencies, such as thumb-sucking, nail-biting, or ritualistic behaviors like needing to follow a specific bedtime routine.

However, in some cases, compulsive behaviors can escalate into more problematic patterns. Gaming addiction, social media overuse, and compulsive eating are increasingly common among adolescents. These behaviors often develop as coping mechanisms for stress, peer pressure, or academic challenges. The rise of digital technology has amplified compulsive tendencies, as endless scrolling and instant gratification can rewire young brains to seek constant stimulation.

As individuals transition into adulthood, compulsions may evolve into more serious addictive behaviors. Work-related compulsions, such as perfectionism or overworking, can emerge as individuals strive for career success. Meanwhile, compulsive gambling, shopping, or substance use may become more pronounced as adults seek relief from financial pressures, relationship stress, or unresolved emotional trauma.

Technology-driven compulsions, including social media addiction and compulsive online shopping, continue to thrive in this phase of life. The constant availability of dopamine-inducing stimuli makes it easier than ever for adults to fall into compulsive loops that can lead to financial strain, relationship conflicts, and even mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.

While some compulsive behaviors may wane with age, others persist or even intensify in later years. For example, compulsive hoarding is more common in older adults, often linked to fears of loss, scarcity, or a deep emotional attachment to possessions. Additionally, compulsive gambling is a growing concern among the elderly, especially as casinos and online betting platforms target retirees with free perks and easy access to games. Many seniors, seeking social interaction or an emotional distraction, develop problematic gambling behaviors that can have financial and psychological consequences.

Loneliness and cognitive decline can also contribute to compulsive tendencies in older adults. Some may develop obsessive routines as a way to maintain a sense of control, while others turn to compulsive eating, medication misuse, or excessive television watching to fill emotional voids.

Breaking the Cycle of Compulsion

What I have noticed for some individuals, their OCD patterns target a specific behavior or thought pattern across the lifespan. However for others, I have noticed their OCD behaviors, across the lifespan, are continually looking for a new host, i.e.,.a new way to manifest and express their obsessive / compulsive behaviors - providing a profile of an individual who, is in fact, iaddicted to their obsessions.

What do we know?

Compulsions can be challenging to overcome, but awareness and intervention can help break the cycle at any age. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, prayer and habit-reversal training have proven effective in managing compulsive behaviors. Support groups and professional counseling can also provide guidance, especially for those struggling with addiction-like compulsions. In fact, across the lifespan, compulsions can serve as both a comfort and a trap. Recognizing their impact and seeking healthier coping strategies can pave the way for a more balanced, fulfilling life. “Just like the above image of the black like-square and the white like-circle - there can be light found in the repetitive darkness of obsessive-compulsive behaviors. No matter the stage of life, it is never too late to regain control and cultivate healthier habits”.

Your choice….find peace….find predictability….find solace….or stay trapped and consumed in cyclical-like destructive behavior. Again, your choice.