A person who needs a regular 'fix' of alcohol is described as being in which stage of alcoholism?

• A. Problem drinking
• B. Alcohol dependence
• C. Binge drinking
• D. Social drinking

Answer: (A)

This question is about recognizing patterns of alcohol use along the spectrum from casual use to more problematic patterns. Regularly needing a “fix” shows a shift from voluntary, social drinking toward a pattern where drinking has become problematic and ongoing, even if full physical dependence isn’t fully established yet. That makes problem drinking the best label, because it describes drinking that causes problems in daily life and is driven by a craving or need to drink regularly.

Social drinking is casual and doesn’t interfere with functioning. Binge drinking refers to episodes of heavy drinking in a short period, not a steady need for alcohol. Alcohol dependence implies physical dependence with tolerance and withdrawal, a later stage than simply needing a regular fix.