Urges
Definition
Allan Marlatt distinguishes between Urges and Cravings:
Craving is defined within this theoretical framework as the degree of desire (incentive value) for the immediate positive outcomes one expects as function of engaging in the addictive behavior. IN this sense, craving refers to the subjective desire for immediate gratification (the Problem of Immediate Gratification [PIG] phenomenon). An urge is defined as an intention to engage in instrumental activity designed to gratify or satisfy craving (thus a distinction is made between craving as subjective motivation state and the urge as behavior intention that "translates" the craving state into a potential overt act of indulgence). IN the material to follow, we use the term urge as general catch-all phrase to represent positive outcome expectancies and craving experiences.[1]
In the SMART Recovery handbook it says:
Triggers are the things that lead to cravings (I want to), which can lead to urges (I need to)[2]
Torah Sources
- Cheshbon Hanefesh Ch. 107 talks about 4 levels: קליטה, עיבור, לידה, וגידול. He says the first one is impossible to prevent, and it's called הרהורי עבירה. However the others can be dealt with ifw we catch them on time.