Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

The information regarding Caffeine Use Disorder in the DSM-5 highlights that it is not categorized as a disorder due to its mild impact relative to other substance use disorders. While caffeine use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms, it does not typically reach the severity required for a formal diagnosis of a substance-related disorder in line with the stricter criteria utilized for other substances. Regarding the other elements, combining Substance Use and Substance Abuse into a continuum aligns with a more modern understanding of addiction, considering both the severity and varying impact levels of substance use. Additionally, the revision of diagnostic criteria reflects contemporary findings, where cravings have been recognized as significant, while legal issues have been deprioritized as a symptom because they do not necessarily reflect the individual’s relationship with the substance itself. Lastly, Gambling Disorder's classification under Non Substance-Related Disorders acknowledges the addictive nature of this behavior, which parallels substance use disorders, recognizing its distinct impact.