Looking for a term for this type of behavior

Hello,

I was having a discussion with someone and tried to explain the following, but for the life of me I couldn't remember or find the word/phrase even with Google. I hope this is the right place to ask!

I'm trying to figure out what the term is for a behavior or cause/effect where someone does something that is rewarding and fun but when done excessively or continuously, it begins to have diminished effects. Kind of like wearing out an otherwise exciting thing to where it has a lot less appeal and you're over it.

I was thinking desensitization, but that's more along the line of negative stimuli.

Thanks in advance!

Hello kevinbrown90: Hm-m-m-m... nothing really comes to mind for me either. Perhaps other members, here on PC, will have some suggestions. In the meantime, I see this is your first post here on PC. So... welcome to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! I hope you find the time you spend here to be of benefit.

PsychCentral is a great place to get information as well as support for mental health issues. There are many knowledgeable & caring members here. The more you post, & reply to other members’ posts, the more a part of the community you will become. Plus there are social groups you can join & chat rooms where you’ll be able to connect with other PC members in real time (once your first 5 posts have been reviewed & approved.) Lots of great stuff! So please keep posting!

Your question is a bit complex, so I have a couple of question before I try to answer.

What is the duration of your interest and then lack of interest?

Your use of the word exciting my help in giving you the right word.
Is your interest & and then lack of interest serial?
Meaning going from one idea that you put yourself in continually, then moving on to another one.

OCD comes to mind Obcessive Compulsive Disorder, caused by Anxiety.

Impulse control?

Habituation?

Hi Kevin

It may not be the word/term you're looking for..........but yes, desensitization can fit.
That can also refer to a "numbed pleasure response", as in addictions/addictive behaviours............so unless you find a term closer to what you were trying to think of..........you're right, desensitization can fit

But..........is this behaviour something we can maybe try to help you with.......if you want to talk a bit more about it.............we can try

Alison

Diminishing returns?