What are the differences between abuse, dependence, alcoholism, and addiction?
Abuse and dependence are diagnostic terms used to describe the pattern of use and life consequences attributed to drinking and substance use. There are two terms that are often used to describe the behavioral pattern of alcohol and substance dependence: alcoholism and addiction. a. Abuse: The essential feature of Substance Abuse is an unhealthy pattern of problem use leading to significant negative consequences. This includes one or more of the following: failure to fulfill major social obligations in the context of work, school, or home; recurrent substance use in situations that creates the potential for harm (e.g., drinking and driving); recurrent substance-related legal problems; and continued substance use, despite having persistent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance. b. Dependence: Substance Dependence is marked by a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms, indicating that the individual continues to use a g
