University study indicates that addictive behaviours affect the brain like drugs do

28 May 2025

Gambling and gaming can change how the brain learns and remembers, much like drug addiction. A review conducted by University of Gibraltar researchers found that people with these addictions rely more on habits, have trouble with memory and decision-making, and show changes in brain areas linked to learning. These brain changes may help explain how behavioural addictions start and persist.

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The review paper was published in a Q1-ranked journal with contributions from the following researchers from the Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming: Mr Ronald Ngetich, PhD Researcher; Ms Yanisha Soborun, PhD Researcher; Dr Cristina Villalba García, Researcher; Dr Andrea Czakó, Senior Research Manager; Prof Zsolt Demetrovics, Adjunct Professor.

Article abstract:

Learning and memory processes in behavioural addiction: A systematic review

 Similar to addictive substances, addictive behaviours such as gambling and gaming are associated with maladaptive modulation of key brain areas and functional networks implicated in learning and memory. Therefore, this review sought to understand how different learning and memory processes relate to behavioural addictions and to unravel their underlying neural mechanisms.

Access the full article here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105747

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