In his ground-breaking book The Heart of Addiction, Dr. Lance Dodes rejected pat explanations of alcoholism as a disease and explored the underlying emotions that drive addictive behaviors-be they drinking, gambling, obsessive sex, or otherwise. In his practice and research, Dodes has found that virtually every addictive act is preceded by a feeling of helplessness or powerlessness-deeply routed in the past-which addictive behavior functions to repair. Now, in Breaking Addiction, Dodes presents a comprehensive guide outlining seven critical steps to overcome addiction, based on these theories. In his straightforward style, Dodes incorporates case stories to illustrate the common emotional factors underlying all addictions, and the process of self-examination that allows you to recognize these factors at work in yourself. When you learn how addiction works, and the emotional purpose your addiction serves, Dodes shows you can take back control of your life.