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

What is the primary difference between a "needle freak" and a physically dependent heroin user?

1. Needle freaks require physical withdrawal treatment.

2. Needle freaks are psychologically dependent.

3. Needle freaks do not require any medical attention.

4. Needle freaks only use heroin occasionally.

The correct answer is: Needle freaks are psychologically dependent.

The primary distinction that makes the selected answer accurate revolves around the nature of dependence. A "needle freak," which is often used to refer to a person who is primarily focused on the act of injecting drugs rather than the drug itself, exhibits a form of psychological dependence. This type of user is drawn more to the behavior and ritual associated with the injection process than to the opiate's biochemical effects. Psychological dependence can manifest in various ways, such as a compulsive need to use needles, often linked to the immediacy and intensity of the drug's effects when administered this way. In contrast, a physically dependent heroin user would typically experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using heroin, indicating a reliance on the substance itself for physiological well-being. By identifying that needle freaks are psychologically dependent, one recognizes that their drug use is intertwined with their behavior and mental state rather than solely based on the physical properties of the drug. This understanding aids in tailoring treatment approaches, as those with psychological dependence might benefit more from behavioral therapies compared to those with a more straightforward physical dependence, who may need to manage withdrawal symptoms and physical cravings.