The purpose of this book is to develop a psychological understanding of a range of addictive behaviours or excessive appetites. The lively description of five forms of addiction - alcohol, drugs, food, gambling and sexuality draws upon historical, social and clinical material. The author has emphasized social psychological processes but the role of biological factors in addiction are carefully considered. The book, which will be of particular interest to all concerned with the relationship between behaviour and health, as well as to practitioners and trainees in the mental health disciplines, is important for its presentation of a major alternative to a disease view of addiction.