What term describes the process of returning to older behaviors after making changes?

The term that describes the process of returning to older behaviors after making changes is "relapse." In the context of addiction and recovery, relapse refers to the reversion to previous patterns of substance use or behavior after a period of abstinence or positive change. It signifies a setback where an individual may return to using substances or engaging in maladaptive behaviors that they had previously worked to overcome.

Relapse is a common phenomenon in recovery processes, and understanding this concept is crucial for practitioners as they design interventions and support systems. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing support, monitoring, and strategies to help individuals maintain long-term sobriety and minimize the chances of returning to old behaviors.

Other terms such as maintenance, assessment, and screening have distinct meanings within the context of behavioral health and chemical dependency. Maintenance refers to the continuous efforts to sustain positive changes after treatment, while assessment involves evaluating an individual's situation and needs. Screening is the process of identifying individuals who may have substance use disorders. Thus, while these terms are related to the overall process of recovery, they do not capture the specific phenomenon of reverting to previous behaviors like relapse does.