Appendix 1931.2: Criteria for Diagnosing Substance Abuse
CPS June 2010
Summarizing the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-IV), DFPS uses the following definitions:
Use
Low or infrequent consumption of alcohol or drugs not resulting in impairment.
Abuse
A pattern of use characterized by one or more of the following, within a 12-month period:
• Failure to fulfill major role obligations
• Recurrent use in physically hazardous situations
• Trouble with the law
• Interpersonal or social problems
• Misuse of prescription medication or intravenous drugs
Dependency or Addiction
Within a 12-month period, three or more of the following:
• The continued use of a substance despite negative consequences
• An increase in tolerance
• Unsuccessful in cutting down use
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Drug seeking
• Behavioral changes
• Disregarding physical or psychological problems caused by use