Recognizing The Addictive/Compulsive*

Often Pastors in traumatic circumstances respond to such crises by adopting
addictive and/or compulsive behaviors. Here’s a simple listing and
descriptions to help identify such individuals.

1. Preoccupation…with any addictive agent: persons, things, activities,
events, behaviors, etc.

2. Increased Tolerance…the longer the addiction, the greater the tolerance
level for involvement with the addictive agent.

3. Loss of Control… an inability to cut back, modify, or resist behaviors in
spite of promises.

4. Withdrawal…any attempt to stop or modify use or attachment to addictive
agent causes withdrawal symptoms such as depression, extended periods of
crying, anger, irritability, etc.

5. Secretive Behavior…clever denial techniques and cleverly concealing
evidence help conceal the problem.

6. Denial…Marked by defensiveness, rationalizations, or the “shrug off”
(“It’s no big deal,” “I’m in control,” etc).

7. Yo-Yo Complex…wide and sudden moods swings which addictive persons can
hide quite skillfully.

8. Blaming…the “It’s not my fault” syndrome (see “Autobiography in Five
Chapters” at the Ministry Health HomePage).

9. Mental Lapses…blackouts, loss of memories, daydreaming, pre-occupation
with the addictive agent

10. Physical Symptoms…headaches, ulcers, hypertension, etc.

11. Rigid Attitudes…intolerance of differing viewpoints, black-or-white,
all-or-nothing thinking patterns leading to disrupted relationships.

12. Low Self-Image…the longer the period of addiction, the less one cares
about themselves and the greater the potential for addicted individuals to
act contrary to their original value system.

13. Tragedy…compulsive addictions can so alter judgement that accidents,
injuries and even disability or death can result.

* Adapted from Wright, Norman. “Dysfunctional Roles: Do I Have One?” in
Always Daddy’s Girl. Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 1989. pp. 175-177

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• Pastor Burnout Statistics
• Stress and Burnout in Pastoral Ministry: A Prologue
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• Becoming a leader of no reputation

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