Physical dependence is a condition in which a person’s body has adapted to a particular substance and becomes dependent on it in order to function normally. Dependence is indicated by physical symptoms that occur after the substance has stopped being used or when the dose is reduced.
Physical dependence is distinct from psychological dependence, which is an emotional need or compulsion to use a substance.
Physical dependence results from changes in the body that occur over time, with the body becoming used to having certain amounts of the substance present. These changes can cause the person to experience unpleasant physical symptoms, such as sweating, shakes, nausea and vomiting, when the substance is not present or the dose is reduced.
Withdrawal symptoms, which are physical and mental symptoms that occur when an individual stops using a substance to which they have become physically dependent, can vary in intensity and duration. Depending on the individual and the specifics of their situation, such as how long they have been using a substance, withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Severe physical withdrawal symptoms can put an individual at risk and should be managed with medical supervision.
Table of Contents
What is psychological dependence on a drug quizlet?
Psychological dependence on a drug is a condition in which a person relies on a substance in order to cope with daily life, to manage their emotions, to feel pleasure, and to avoid feelings of anxiety or depression.
This reliance can form in response to a specific event or can be a general type of dependence on the drug over time. Psychological dependence can lead to an individual having cravings for a drug and feeling an emotional need to use.
Signs of psychological dependence include spending a significant amount of time obtaining and using the drug, feeling unable to discontinue the drug without experiencing symptoms of withdrawal, and an inability to cope with daily responsibilities without the aid of the drug.
Treatment often involves counseling, support groups, medication, and stress-management techniques.
How do you use psychological dependence in a sentence?
Psychological dependence can be seen in a person’s inability to function normally without the use of a certain substance or behavior, such as alcohol or gambling. For example, a person who has become psychologically dependent on alcohol may experience increased anxiety and depression when they try to go without it, as they feel they need it to cope with their emotional issues.
What are the two types of dependence?
The two types of dependence include positive dependence and negative dependence.
Positive dependence occurs when the outcome of one event affects the outcome of the next event in the same direction, such that each successive event increases the probability of a positive outcome. Examples include compound interest and positive reinforcement.
Negative dependence occurs when the outcome of one event affects the outcome of the next event in the opposite direction, such that each successive event decreases the probability of a positive outcome.
Examples include the gambler’s fallacy and diminishing returns.
What are the two most important symptoms of physical dependence on a drug?
The two most important symptoms of physical dependence on a drug are tolerance and withdrawal. Tolerance is a state in which the body adjusts to the presence of the drug and its effects, requiring more of the drug in order to achieve the desired result.
Withdrawal is an abrupt change in the body that occurs when the drug is taken away or reduced. Symptoms of withdrawal can include nausea, headaches, sweating, tremors, insomnia, anxiety, depression, mood swings and cravings for the drug.
These symptoms can be psychological, physical, and emotional in nature, and can last for days or weeks, depending on the drug and the level of physical dependence.
