ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the physical and the mental addiction which together constitute an addiction to work. Baldursson describes workaholics as people who, after periods of having to deal with a considerable work load, become almost addicted to the physiological reactions that follow a tremendous work effort. Work addiction can be explained by theories of addiction. These theories presume that the addiction is pleasant in the beginning, because it produces positive bodily sensations that make the person continue his behaviour. In addition to the physical kick, the workaholic also experiences an emotional kick. This state is typically achieved in connection with the praise and recognition that come in the wake of a great work effort. The psychological model is an optimistic one, because it indicates that the behaviour of the workaholic can be replaced by other, more desirable, behaviour. A workaholic will usually experience an excessive use of other things besides work.
