What term describes the persistent craving and continued use of a substance despite harmful consequences?

Substance Use Disorder is the term that accurately describes a condition characterized by a persistent craving for a substance and the continued use of that substance despite experiencing harmful consequences. This definition encompasses a range of behaviors and attitudes that include the individual's inability to control their use, cravings that are difficult to ignore, and continuing use even when it results in negative impacts on their health, relationships, and responsibilities.

This term is established in diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), which categorizes substance-related problems based not only on frequency of use but also on the individual's patterns of behavior and the specific consequences experienced. It recognizes the complexity of substance-related issues, reflecting both physical and psychological dimensions.

In contrast, the other terms do not capture the full scope of the criteria for Substance Use Disorder. Habitual use refers to a regular pattern of consumption but lacks the emphasis on craving and negative outcomes. Dependency syndrome suggests a physical reliance on a substance, which may not fully encompass the psychological components. Alcoholism specifically refers to the severe form of alcohol dependence and does not apply to all substances or disorders. Thus, Substance Use Disorder is the most comprehensive and accurately defined term in this context.