What criteria identifies repeated involvement with a substance despite substantial harm?

The term that best identifies repeated involvement with a substance despite substantial harm is addiction. Addiction is characterized by a compulsive pattern of substance use that persists despite negative consequences. This encompasses not only the physical dependence that may result from the use of substances but also a psychological component where the individual's need for the substance overrides their knowledge of the harm it may cause to their health, relationships, or other aspects of their life.

In the context of substance use disorders, addiction indicates a more profound level of impairment than simply engaging in harmful use, which can sometimes fall under the broader category of substance abuse. While both addiction and substance abuse can lead to significant harm, addiction implies a chronic condition where the individual exhibits a loss of control over their use, a preoccupation with the substance, and continued use despite experiencing adverse effects.

The other terms listed, such as withdrawal symptoms and risky behavior, describe different aspects of substance use rather than encapsulating the full scope of repeated harmful involvement. Withdrawal symptoms refer specifically to the physical and psychological effects that occur when a substance is reduced or stopped, and risky behavior refers to actions taken that may increase the likelihood of harm due to substance use. While they are related to the consequences of substance use, they do not fully encompass the definition of