Personality and Behaviour Associated with Excessive Dependence on Exercise: Some Reflections from Research

Abstract

This paper examines possible links between negative addiction to running and personality variables. More specifically, it addresses the question of why only certain runners become addicted to running and whether there is a unique interaction between personality variables and specific reinforcing aspects of running. Drawing on the results of four studies conducted in an ongoing research programme at the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, significant trends that have emerged with regard to the personality attributes of addicted runners are highlighted and explained. In particular, the studies provide preliminary supportive evidence for personality differences between extremely dependent and non-dependent groups of runners. It appears that excessive dependence on running is associated with generally rigid, inflexible personality patterns rather than specific personality pathology. The findings further suggest an association between negative addiction to running and interpersonal difficulties. Using Theodore Millon's Biosocial learning theory of personality as the conceptual framework for interpreting these results, this paper offers explanations of how the identified personality pattern of highly dependent runners interacts with the contextual and physiological variables elicited by running to maintain addictive behaviour. Finally, this paper suggests a number of directions for future research into excessive exercise dependence.

An Empirical Investigation of Dance Addiction

“…Items exploring negative consequences (such as tiredness at work) should also be added. Given the fact that “runners high” is a good predictor of compulsive running [ 18 ], it would be interesting to know whether a similar pattern is present in excessive dancing. Another question could examine the differences between amateur and professional dancers in terms of addiction tendency (although among professional dancers there may be a debate about whether their behaviour is dancing addiction or ‘workaholism’).…”

“…Confirming these assumptions, research suggests strong links between exercise addiction and eating disorders [ 16 , 17 ]. Furthermore, it appears that exercise dependence where running is the primary activity is associated with a rigid and inflexible personality pattern [ 18 ]. These data suggest that excessive exercising is linked to psychopathology and is a potentially self-harming behaviour.…”

Impact of Positive, Negative, and No Personality Descriptors on the Attractiveness Halo Effect

“…There is a growing body of research investigating the relationship between running and addiction (Kanarek, D'Anci, Jurdak, & Mathes, 2009;Smith, Wright, & Winrow, 2010). However, running has also been found to be a coping mechanism, which may explain why some individuals desire to run ultramarathons (Basson, 2001;Karnazes, 2006;Leedy, 2000). Further investigation of the various motives for running would shed light on what compels individuals to run marathons and ultramarathons.…”

Sexual Harassment and Assault across Trail and Ultrarunning Communities: A Mixed-Method Study Exploring Gender Differences

“…For many, running is seen as a refuge associated with a myriad of benefits, including physical fitness, mental health, flow (e.g., complete absorption in an enjoyable activity), community engagement, and a sense of achievement (Basson 2001; see review by Oswald et al 2020;Teranishi Martinez and Scott 2016). Running 50 kilometers to over 150K, trail and ultrarunning is the fastest-growing subdivision of the running community (Ronto 2021).…”