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

Which statement about the late stage of alcohol dependence is accurate?

1. Individuals can often control their drinking

2. Social relationships are generally maintained

3. Prolonged drinking binges are common

4. Feelings of guilt are prominent

The correct answer is: Prolonged drinking binges are common

The statement regarding prolonged drinking binges being common in the late stage of alcohol dependence is accurate because, at this stage, individuals often experience a significant loss of control over their drinking. As the condition progresses, alcohol consumption may escalate, leading to frequent and intense binges. This behavior is tied to the body's adaptation to alcohol, requiring more significant amounts to achieve the same effects, resulting in a cycle of heavy drinking episodes. Additionally, the need to drink may overshadow other aspects of life, leading to a focus on obtaining and consuming alcohol, reinforcing the pattern of prolonged binge drinking. In contrast, the ability to control drinking diminishes significantly in the late stage of alcohol dependence, making that option inaccurate. While some individuals may maintain superficial social relationships, many lose or struggle with close connections as their drinking takes priority or leads to social withdrawal, disproving the option that suggests social relationships are generally maintained. Feelings of guilt may occur; however, they tend to be less prominent as the individual often becomes more desensitized to the negative consequences of their drinking behavior, making this aspect not fully representative of the late stage of alcohol dependence.