This paper explores the concept of Wealth Acquisition Addiction as a behavioural addiction, though not classified in the Fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disordersas a behavioural addiction, Wealth Acquisition Addiction was found to possess some phenomenological similarities in its manifestation with other behavioural addictions and with substance abuse. The paper also attempts to explain the construct of Wealth Acquisition Addiction from the Nigerian perspective, using the Machiavellian Theory of Wealth Acquisition, which can be construed as portraying that “the end justifies the means” or the “steal but do not get caught” philosophies; and the inequality in wealth distribution, as a causative factor, of the obsessive desire to acquire wealth among some Nigerians. Factors that may contribute to Wealth Acquisition Addiction, such as addictive personality, substance abuse and genetics, were explored. The paper critically discussed the psychosocial implications and signs of Wealth Acquisition Addiction, and proffered psychological approaches to the treatment of Wealth Acquisition Addiction. The need for further empirical and epidemiologic studies on Wealth Acquisition Addiction was suggested.

Keywords : Wealth Acquisition, Addiction, Quandary, Money.