Substance Addiction is defined as?

• A. A mood disorder characterized by cravings for substances.
• B. A disorder of substance abuse with no compulsions.
• C. A compulsive need for a habit-forming substance.
• D. A transient curiosity about drugs.

Answer: (C)

Addiction is defined by a compulsive pattern of needing and seeking out a substance, often despite negative consequences. The best choice captures that core idea—the person experiences a compulsive need to use a habit-forming substance, which drives repeated use and difficulty stopping. Addiction isn’t just a mood issue or a momentary interest; it’s persistent and involves loss of control. The other descriptions miss that essential compulsive, driven aspect: it’s not simply a mood disorder with cravings, nor is it characterized by a lack of compulsions, and it isn’t just a fleeting curiosity.