Negative Consequences

Addiction:  A state that is characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding behavior, despite negative consequences.

I was teasing a friend yesterday about his decision to brew up a cup of herbal tea prior to the meeting, suggesting that he slam a couple cups of coffee instead.

"Coffee makes me anxious," he said.
"Yeah, it makes me anxious, too," I quipped.  "What does that have to do with it?"

Compulsion:  An irrational need or irresistible urge to perform some action, often despite negative consequences.

I note with some chagrined amusement that the phrase "despite negative consequences" appears in both definitions.   It suggests . . . no, it states . . . that the behavior leads to a poor outcome.