Question

Dhruv has been consuming alcohol for many years. Recently he has joined an alcohol rehabilitation center. During his group therapy session, Dhruv shared that the amount of alcohol he could drink to feel 'high' has increased. Identify the reason for this change:

• A. Withdrawal
• B. Tolerance
• C. Poor quality of alcohol
• D. Fixation

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

In psychology and substance use studies, when an individual like Dhruv reports needing to consume more alcohol to achieve the same 'high', it indicates a phenomenon referred to as Tolerance. Tolerance is a condition where the body becomes accustomed to a substance due to prolonged use, necessitating an increase in dosage to achieve the initial effects. This physiological adaptation is a hallmark of ongoing substance use and represents the body's diminishing response to the substance over time. 

Considering the options:

• Withdrawal: This refers to the physical and mental symptoms that occur after reducing or stopping substance intake, which is not applicable in this context.
• Poor quality of alcohol: While poor quality might affect the user's experience, it is not a consistent reason for increased consumption to feel 'high'.
• Fixation: This is a psychological term more associated with an obsessive interest or attachment, not directly related to substance tolerance.
• Tolerance: Correctly describes Dhruv's situation, as his increased alcohol consumption to achieve the same effect signifies the development of tolerance.

Thus, the phenomenon Dhruv is experiencing is best explained by tolerance.

Answer 2

Tolerance is the phenomenon whereby an individual needs to consume larger amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect that was previously experienced with smaller amounts.

In Dhruv’s case, after years of alcohol consumption, his body has adapted to the presence of alcohol, requiring him to drink more to achieve the same "high" he initially felt with less alcohol. This is a classic example of tolerance, which can develop with prolonged use of substances such as alcohol, drugs, or medications. Over time, the body becomes less responsive to the substance, leading to increased consumption to feel the same effects.