We propose a Special Issue dedicated to the critical and timely exploration of “Behavioral Addictions: From Bench to Bedside”. Over the past decades, the concept of addiction has undergone profound evolution, transcending traditional substance use disorders and leading to the recognition of behavioral addictions. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) has included gambling disorder, along with substance use disorders, as forms of addiction in a new chapter named “Substance-related and addictive disorders”, thus reflecting evidence that gambling behaviors activate reward systems similarly to substance addiction. Behavioral addiction is characterized by compelling and repetitive engagement in activities, which can culminate in severe functional impairment. These behavioral addictions encompass a diverse range of behaviors, including but not limited to gambling, gaming, smartphone usage, shopping, sexual activities, pornography consumption, and food-related behaviors, all of which exert profound effects on individuals across a wide spectrum of severity.

The proposed Special Issue aims to illuminate the multifaceted dimensions of behavioral addictions, spanning from their neurobiological underpinnings to treatment approaches and interventions. Our primary objective is to establish and inclusive platform, enabling researchers and clinicians to disseminate their profound insights, groundbreaking discoveries, and pioneering innovations pertaining to the comprehension and management of behavioral addictions. The Special Issue will encompass a comprehensive array of topics, including investigations into the neurobiological foundations and phenotypes associated with behavioral addictions, explorations of the psychological, cognitive, and behavioral facets of these addictions, presentations of treatment modalities and interventions, discussions of strategies for prevention and harm reduction, and examinations of comorbidities and co-occuring conditions. We wholeheartedly encourage the submission of cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of our current understanding of behavioral addictions.