National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which of the following best characterizes alcohol use disorder?

1. Consistent moderate use

2. Occasional binge drinking

3. Chronic inability to control drinking

4. Social drinking without negative consequences

The correct answer is: Chronic inability to control drinking

The characterization of alcohol use disorder is best encapsulated by a chronic inability to control drinking. This definition reflects a pattern of alcohol consumption that substantially impairs an individual's ability to manage their drinking behavior. Unlike consistent moderate use, which may not indicate a disorder, alcohol use disorder involves repeated failures to limit intake, leading to significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The notion of occasional binge drinking may suggest a problematic pattern in some individuals, but it does not necessarily meet the criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder on its own. Similarly, social drinking without negative consequences denotes a level of responsible consumption that is typically not associated with the disorder. Hence, the hallmark of alcohol use disorder is the chronic and compulsive nature of drinking despite adverse effects, which is accurately captured by the inability to control drinking.