Dynamics and Negative Consequencies of Development of Addictive Product Markets

Abstract

The present paper is devoted to describe a holistic canvas of accelerated development of addictive consumption in the contemporary society. The classification of addictive products - from real to virtual ones - as well as estimations of corresponding market sizes and trends is given. The said products are classified in accordance with the degree of its devastating impact on individuals (consumers) and a society as a whole. The notion of "para-addictive product" is defined and coined. The consumption of such products has not a devastating effect on consumers' health but provokes and boosts their proper addictive consumption. Some negative socio-economic and political consequences of addictive consumption are systematized. Examples of regulations applied on addictive product markets are given and estimated. Following conclusions are presented: 1) there is a lack of effective regulation on addictive consumption markets; 2) the said markets are poorly studied; 3) it is necessary to develop the comprehensive program that includes not only administrative/political and medical techniques but countermarketing ones. The latter is intended to devaluate and even reverse the consumer perceived use value of addictive products.