National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

What is a common characteristic of most solvents and inhalants?

1. All are illegal substances

2. They are generally available for public purchase

3. None can cause psychological dependence

4. All are effective medications

The correct answer is: They are generally available for public purchase

The correct answer highlights that most solvents and inhalants are generally available for public purchase. This accessibility is a significant factor contributing to their use and potential for abuse. These substances can often be found in everyday products such as cleaning supplies, adhesives, and certain industrial chemicals, making them easily obtainable for many individuals, including those who may misuse them. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of solvents and inhalants. While some substances may be illegal, many are legal and widely available for purchase by the public. Additionally, many solvents and inhalants can lead to psychological dependence in users, contradicting the claim that none can cause such dependency. Lastly, though some inhalants may have medicinal uses in controlled environments, not all are classified as effective medications, as many are primarily used as household or industrial products rather than for therapeutic purposes.