Question

Persistent, irresistible use of a substance or engagement in a habit despite harmful effects is best described as:

Options

• Medicinal use

• Recreational use

• Compulsive use

• Occasional social use

Answer 1

The defining behavioural feature of addiction is compulsive use — the person cannot resist continuing the substance or habit even though harmful effects occur. Recreational, medicinal, or occasional social use lacks this compulsive, dependent quality.