Paul Erdős is known as a scientist obsessed with mathematics and numbers. And he is still respected for his contributions to the field of mathematics.
Obsessions like Erdős are rare. However, they are still a distinctive feature of a person. Such ideas can lead us to goals, help us achieve them, improve our skills and accumulate knowledge.
Some people become victims of obsessions. For example, learning about your favorite band is the norm. But when it turns into harassment, it goes out of normal behavior.
What causes a person to be obsessed? It’s all about the nature of the brain.
When a person achieves something, the hormone dopamine is produced in the brain. As a result, the person enjoys his work and wants to repeat it. Most pleasurable activities do not turn into obsession as they cause a slight increase in dopamine levels in the brain. However, if the person repeats some action that gives pleasure, self-regulation mechanisms work. There is a feeling of depression because of them. Over time, more and more dopamine may be needed to get rid of this feeling and feel satisfied again.
Sometimes obsessions can turn into addictions. In this case, the person cannot stop behaving in a certain way despite harming others or himself.
Source: Ferra
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