Which term describes emotional or physiological dependence on a drug that progresses beyond voluntary control?

Which term describes emotional or physiological dependence on a drug that progresses beyond voluntary control?

• A. Addiction
• B. Psychological dependence
• C. Physical dependence
• D. Lethal dose

Answer: (A)

Addiction refers to a condition where dependence on a drug becomes compulsive and driven by cravings, with brain changes that make it hard to control use. It goes beyond simply wanting a drug; the dependence becomes so strong that stopping or limiting use feels nearly impossible, even when there are negative consequences. This emotional and physiological pull is what characterizes addiction as progressing past voluntary control. Psychological dependence describes having emotional cravings and a mental need for the drug, which can exist without the person losing control over use. Physical dependence involves the body adapting to the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms if use stops, but that alone doesn’t fully capture the compulsive pattern of continued use despite harm. Lethal dose is unrelated to dependence.

Addiction refers to a condition where dependence on a drug becomes compulsive and driven by cravings, with brain changes that make it hard to control use. It goes beyond simply wanting a drug; the dependence becomes so strong that stopping or limiting use feels nearly impossible, even when there are negative consequences. This emotional and physiological pull is what characterizes addiction as progressing past voluntary control.

Psychological dependence describes having emotional cravings and a mental need for the drug, which can exist without the person losing control over use. Physical dependence involves the body adapting to the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms if use stops, but that alone doesn’t fully capture the compulsive pattern of continued use despite harm. Lethal dose is unrelated to dependence.