Which term describes abuse plus tolerance, withdrawal, or compulsive use?

Which term describes abuse plus tolerance, withdrawal, or compulsive use?

• A. Misuse
• B. Addiction
• C. Dependence
• D. Dual diagnosis

Answer: (C)

Physiological dependence is indicated when the body adapts to a substance, shown by tolerance (needing more to get the same effect) or withdrawal (uncomfortable symptoms when not using). When abuse is present plus these physiological signs—or when use becomes compulsive despite harm—the pattern is best described as dependence. Addiction is related and often overlaps, emphasizing the compulsive, uncontrollable aspect, but the combination of abuse with tolerance or withdrawal fits dependence most directly. Misuse lacks these physiological adaptations, and dual diagnosis refers to a co-occurring mental health disorder, not the substance-use pattern described.

Physiological dependence is indicated when the body adapts to a substance, shown by tolerance (needing more to get the same effect) or withdrawal (uncomfortable symptoms when not using). When abuse is present plus these physiological signs—or when use becomes compulsive despite harm—the pattern is best described as dependence. Addiction is related and often overlaps, emphasizing the compulsive, uncontrollable aspect, but the combination of abuse with tolerance or withdrawal fits dependence most directly. Misuse lacks these physiological adaptations, and dual diagnosis refers to a co-occurring mental health disorder, not the substance-use pattern described.