Your friend misses work and has serious family difficulties because he uses drugs. However, he is not addicted to drugs. What DSM-IV diagnosis should be made in this case?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The DSM-IV defines substance abuse as a pattern of substance use that leads to significant impairment or distress in one's life but does not meet the criteria for substance dependence. In this case, the friend is experiencing serious difficulties related to drug use but is not addicted. Therefore, a diagnosis of substance abuse would be appropriate.

Your Friend Misses Work and Has Serious Family Difficulties Because