Substance Use Disorder & Recovery Knowledge Flashcards

Which neurotransmitter is most directly associated with the rewarding effects of most substances of abuse?

Answer: Dopamine

Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (reward pathway) is the primary mechanism underlying the reinforcing effects of most substances.

A client reports drinking alcohol every evening to avoid feeling anxious and shaky. This pattern best illustrates which concept?

Answer: Negative reinforcement

Negative reinforcement occurs when substance use is maintained by the removal of an unpleasant state (anxiety, withdrawal).

Which stage of the Prochaska and DiClemente Transtheoretical Model involves a client actively making behavior changes for less than six months?

Answer: Action

The Action stage is defined by active behavioral change that has been sustained for less than six months.

What does the term 'cross-tolerance' mean in substance use disorder?

Answer: Tolerance to one drug produces tolerance to other drugs in the same class

Cross-tolerance means that tolerance developed for one substance extends to other substances acting on the same receptors or systems.

According to the DSM-5, how many criteria must be met within a 12-month period to receive a diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder?

Answer: At least 2

DSM-5 requires at least 2 of 11 criteria within a 12-month period for a diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder.

Which physical symptom is most characteristic of opioid withdrawal?

Answer: Muscle aches and goosebumps

Opioid withdrawal classically presents with myalgia, piloerection (goosebumps), lacrimation, and rhinorrhea, though rarely life-threatening.

A client has been abstinent from alcohol for three years and is actively involved in AA. Which stage of recovery is this client most likely in?

Answer: Middle Recovery

Middle Recovery (typically 1–3+ years) focuses on repairing relationships, developing lifestyle balance, and integrating recovery into daily life.