This systematic review found positive associations between dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs and addictive behaviours. It appears that metacognitions promote harmful thinking styles and unhealthy coping strategies, which increase the odds of taking part in addictive behaviours. Almost all of the studies found in the review were cross-sectional; more longitudinal or experimental studies are required to examine the possible causal relationship of metacognition and addiction. Metacognitive therapy could be a promising treatment for people with addiction.
