I found a little article in a magazine about the biochemical basis for addiction. The article specifies certain substances and behaviors that seem to be especially addictive, and then there is a little "test" a person can take to learn "how prone your brain is to addiction." I suggest you run through each question, thinking about reffing, and see how you come out. I'm a little embarassed about my own results!

1. Does it take more volume or more intensity of the substance or activity to achieve the same effect than it did previously?

2. Do withdrawal symptoms occur when use of the substance or participation in the activity stop abruptly? (think mid-March here folks...)

3. Does participation in the activity (or consumption of the substance) occur in larger amounts or over longer intervals than originally intended?

4. Is there an enduring but unfulfilled wish to cut down on the use of the substance or participation in the activity?

5. Is an inordinate amount of time spent looking for, consuming, and recovering from the use of the substance or participation in the activity?

6. Are family, work, or recreational activities sacrificiced due to use of the substance or participation in the activity?

7. Does consumption of the substance or participation in the activity persist despite an awareness that it is damaging to health, family life, or job performance?

Seriously, it's kinda cute and funny to think about, but most of us would end up saying, "No, I guess I'm not really addicted to reffing." But we all know one or two for whom it's no joke.

According to this test, I'm addicted to Teri Hatcher.

Mark,

We have a double whistle, but it's ok cuz' I got the same thing you got. :D

Z

Yep. Fresh/Soph used to be enough. Now I need JV and long for Varsity.

Yes. And there is great sadness when I have to turn an assigner away.

I think I told my wife something about 2, maybe 3 nights per week. Some weeks it's been 5 or 6.

You're kidding, right?

Define inordinate :D

This IS my recreational activity.

Oh yeah!

:D

AMEN!

Does #4 actually apply to anyone? I can't believe it would with the sport of basketball. :p

I think it refers to a feeling that there might be something else interesting going on in the world, and that you might like to go find out, but aren't quite sure how to extricate yourself. I get that once or twice a year -- kid's Christmas program, stuff like that. I wouldn't call it enduring!

Okay - but what other interesting stuff could possibly be going on now that college football is done?