Question

Paz now needs more alcohol to get high than she did when she first started drinking. Paz has developed alcohol. a. an addiction to b. tolerance to c. a withdrawal from d. a margin of safety for

Short answer

Paz has developed tolerance to alcohol.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Concept

In this step, we need to recognize that the question is related to a situation where repeated use of a substance leads to a change in how one reacts to it. This typically implies that the body and brain adapt to its presence.

Analyze the Options

Consider what each option means: - **Addiction**: refers to a compulsive need. - **Tolerance**: means needing more of the substance to achieve the same effects due to repeated use. - **Withdrawal**: involves the symptoms experienced when stopping a drug. - **Margin of Safety**: refers to the dose range that is considered safe.

Apply the Concept

Paz needing more alcohol to feel the same effects suggests her body has adapted to its presence. This means her response is reduced over time, necessitating an increased dose.

Choose the Best Answer

Based on the analysis, the best definition for needing more alcohol to get high is **tolerance**. Thus, Paz has developed tolerance to alcohol.

Key concepts

Substance Use

Substance use refers to consuming chemical substances that can alter the mind or body. Common substances include alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. People may start using these substances for various reasons:

• Social reasons, such as fitting in with friends
• Coping with stress or trauma
• Curiosity or experimentation

Substance use can lead to differing effects, depending on frequency and quantity. While some people might engage in occasional use without adverse effects, others might find themselves using substances more frequently, potentially leading to substance abuse. It's crucial to understand that substances can affect individuals differently. Over time, regular use can lead to changes in the brain and body, resulting in tolerance or even addiction.

Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol consumption can have both short-term and long-term effects on the body and mind. In the short term, alcohol acts as a depressant:

• It slows down brain function and alters mood
• It impairs motor skills and decision-making abilities
• It can cause individuals to lose inhibitions

With long-term use or heavy drinking, more severe effects emerge, including liver damage, addiction, and changes in behavior. Alcohol can affect everyone differently. Factors such as age, weight, and drinking history play a role in how alcohol is metabolized. Over time, frequent exposure to alcohol can lead to an increase in tolerance, meaning that the person needs more alcohol to feel the same effects. While initially consuming alcohol might produce feelings of relaxation or euphoria, higher consumption can lead to negative health impacts and dependency.

Behavioral Adaptation

Behavioral adaptation refers to the ways in which individuals change their behaviors in response to environmental stimuli, including substance exposure. In the context of alcohol or other substances, behavioral adaptation can manifest in several ways:

• Developing a routine around substance use
• Increasing consumption to achieve desired effects
• Adjusting social activities to accommodate substance use

This kind of adaptation often happens without conscious intent. The brain learns to function with substances, adjusting behaviors to maintain equilibrium. As a result, people may find themselves needing higher doses or using substances more frequently. Over time, these adaptations can lead to tolerance, where the body requires more of the substance to achieve the same effects, or even physical dependence, where withdrawal symptoms appear if use is stopped suddenly. Understanding these changes can help individuals recognize the importance of moderation and the potential risks associated with increasing substance use.