What are the primary characteristics that differentiate substance dependence from substance abuse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tolerance and withdrawal are the primary characteristics that differentiate substance dependence from substance abuse. Substance dependence involves a physical or psychological need for a substance, with symptoms such as tolerance and withdrawal when the substance is not consumed. Substance abuse, on the other hand, involves using a substance in a way that causes problems or negative consequences in one's life without the physical or psychological need for the substance. The amount and frequency of drinking (B), subjective intoxication and distress (C), and behavioral and social consequences (D) may all be present in both substance dependence and substance abuse. However, the presence of tolerance and withdrawal is what distinguishes substance dependence from substance abuse.

What Are the Primary Characteristics That Differentiate Substance Dependence from Substance