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

What kind of dependence is observed with benzodiazepine use in neurotypical individuals?

1. High psychological dependence

2. No physical dependence

3. Little psychological dependence

4. Severe physical dependence

The correct answer is: Little psychological dependence

When discussing benzodiazepines and their use among neurotypical individuals, the nature of dependence that develops is primarily psychological rather than physical. While these medications can lead to a level of psychological dependence due to their calming and anxiety-reducing properties, neurotypical individuals may not experience the same degree of physical dependence that is often observed with other substances, such as opioids or alcohol. Benzodiazepines can create a reliance where users feel they need the medication to function or cope with anxiety or stress; this reliance reflects more on the mind's association with the drug's effects rather than a physiological withdrawal syndrome that is characterized by severe physical symptoms. Furthermore, understanding that while some psychological dependence can occur, many individuals do not develop a profound dependence that could result in significant impairment or severe withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. In summary, the primary occurrence in this context is a minimal level of psychological dependence, allowing for the identification of the correct answer as it aligns with the patterns of use and reactions typically observed in neurotypical individuals using benzodiazepines.