Question

Physical dependence on alcohol and the loss of control over one's drinking are 2 important characteristics of what disease

A) Bipolar disorder
B) Schizophrenia
C) Alcohol use disorder
D) Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Answer 1

Physical dependence on alcohol and loss of control over drinking are characteristics of Alcohol use disorder (C). This condition is recognized as a disease as outlined by the DSM-5, which defines it by a pattern of compulsive use despite negative consequences.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two important characteristics of physical dependence on alcohol and the loss of control over one's drinking are indicative of Alcohol use disorder (C). This condition has been increasingly understood as a disease, particularly since the latter half of the twentieth century. Individuals with this disorder are viewed more sympathetically, because it's now recognized that they may suffer from a disease or a genetic predisposition to addiction, rather than making a personal choice to drink excessively.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), substance use disorder, which includes alcohol use disorder, is defined by a compulsive pattern of drug use despite negative consequences. This pattern often involves both physical and psychological dependence. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects GABA neurotransmission, which with repeated use can lead to physical dependence characterized by tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.