Trauma (addiction psychology) is a psychological construct referring to exposure to deeply distressing or disturbing events and the subsequent psychological and physiological sequelae that significantly influence the etiology, manifestation, and treatment of substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. Within this context, trauma encompasses experiences such as abuse, neglect (including in child maltreatment), violence, or disaster, which can overwhelm an individual's coping capacity, leading to chronic stress, emotional dysregulation, and the development of maladaptive coping mechanisms, including substance use. Understanding the profound impact of trauma is essential for comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis, and the implementation of integrated therapeutic approaches within the field of clinical psychology as it pertains to addiction, often involving considerations from psychopharmacology and behavioral therapies. This concept specifically focuses on the psychological and behavioral impact of traumatic experiences, distinguishing it from physical trauma.