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

Which term describes the act of repeating the same behavior over and over again?

1. Rebound effects

2. Stimulant

3. Stereotypy

4. Withdrawal

The correct answer is: Stereotypy

The term "stereotypy" refers to the repetitive and habitual behavior that occurs in various contexts, particularly in the fields of psychology and behavioral health. Stereotypy is characterized by the repeated enactment of certain behaviors that can serve various functions, such as self-soothing, expressing anxiety, or even as a form of communication in certain populations. In addiction counseling, recognizing stereotypic behaviors can be crucial, as they may indicate underlying mental health conditions or can be a consequence of substance use. Understanding these patterns allows counselors to tailor their approaches, helping clients address the root causes of such behaviors rather than just the symptoms. The other terms do not accurately describe the act of repeating the same behavior. For instance, rebound effects refer to the compensatory reactions following the cessation of a drug, stimulants are substances that temporarily enhance a specific function of the central nervous system, and withdrawal pertains to the symptoms experienced when an individual reduces or stops substance use. None of these concepts encapsulate the notion of habitual repetition in the way that stereotypy does.