Decision-Making in Gambling Disorder, Problematic Pornography Use, and Binge-Eating Disorder: Similarities and Differences

Abstract

Purpose of Review: The present review attempts to provide a comprehensive and critical overview of the neurocognitive mechanisms of gambling disorder (GD), problematic pornography use (PPU), and binge-eating disorder (BED), focusing specifically on decision-making processes. Recent Findings: GD, PPU, and BED have been associated with decision-making impairments both under risk and ambiguity. Features such as intelligence, emotions, social variables, cognitive distortions, comorbidities, or arousal may condition decision-making processes in these individuals. Summary: Impairments in decision-making seem to be a shared transdiagnostic feature of these disorders. However, there is varying support for the degree to which different features may affect decision-making. Therefore, the study of decision-making processes can provide crucial evidence for understanding addictions and other disorders with addiction-like symptomatology.