CDCA Substance Use Disorder & Recovery Knowledge 2

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Negative reinforcement

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Action

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

At least 2

Answer

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

(CDCA) Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Practice Test