What is a common psychological function impaired by addiction?

Decision-making is commonly impaired by addiction due to the way substances affect brain function and neurochemistry. Addiction can lead to significant alterations in areas of the brain responsible for cognitive control, impulse regulation, and judgment. Specifically, the prefrontal cortex, which plays a critical role in decision-making, becomes less effective in evaluating consequences and regulating behaviors. As a result, individuals struggling with addiction may find it difficult to make rational choices, weigh risks and benefits effectively, or consider the long-term ramifications of their actions.

Although memory retention, moral reasoning, and creative thinking can also be affected by addiction, decision-making is particularly prominent because impaired decision-making leads directly to the initiation and continuation of substance use. This can create a cycle where poor choices contribute to increased substance use, further impairing the individual's ability to make sound decisions, thereby perpetuating the addiction cycle.