Which term describes a strong desire to continue to use the drug for emotional reasons, with no physical withdrawal symptoms?

• A. Dependence
• B. Intoxication
• C. Physical dependence
• D. Psychological dependence

Answer: (D)

Emotional reinforcement drives continued use: Psychological dependence describes a strong emotional craving to keep using a drug in order to relieve mood distress, cope with stress, or feel “normal.” This motivation can exist even when there are no physical withdrawal symptoms present, focusing on the emotional payoff rather than any immediate physical state.

This differs from intoxication, which concerns the drug’s immediate effects on mood, perception, and behavior while it’s being used. It also differs from physical dependence, which centers on the body’s physiological adaptation to a drug—tolerance and withdrawal symptoms that occur when use stops. While dependence can encompass both emotional and physical aspects, the term that most precisely captures the urge to use for emotional reasons is psychological dependence.