Final answer:
Physical dependence on a drug involves withdrawal symptoms after cessation, but psychological dependence, characterized by an emotional need for the drug, also contributes to addiction. Tolerance increases drug use risks and can be part of physical dependence. Drug addiction is a complex interplay of both physical and psychological factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'The main reason that drug addicts keep taking the drug is because they are physically dependent on it' can be considered true or false depending on the context. While physical dependence is characterized by the body adapting to a drug and consequently experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, psychological dependence also plays a significant role in addiction. It involves an emotional need for the substance, often to relieve psychological distress or to maintain a feeling of euphoria.
Tolerance is a related concept where an individual requires increasingly higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects, potentially leading to dangerous levels of consumption and overdose. Addiction is complex and involves a compulsion to continue using the drug despite negative consequences. Dependence can be both physical, demonstrated by withdrawal symptoms like tremors or seizures, and psychological, shown by a strong drug craving that is emotional rather than physical.
For instance, those with an addiction to opiates like heroin may exhibit physical dependence and could be prescribed methadone to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the harm associated with heroin use. This exemplifies the multifaceted nature of drug addiction where a combination of both physical and psychological factors contribute to the continued use of the drug.