Brett persistently injects himself with pain killers. This has greatly increased his chance of overdosing and dying. His behavior harms no one else. According to the DSM, is Brett's behavior consistent with the definition of a mental disorder?
A) Yes, because very few people in society engage in this behavior.
B) Yes, because he is persistently acting in a way that harms him.
C) No, because his behavior must also harm the well-being of others in the community.
D) No, because there is no evidence that his actions are out of his own control.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Brett's persistent drug use, which greatly increases his risk of overdose and death, could potentially be indicative of a substance use disorder, which is a recognized mental disorder in the DSM. The fact that his behavior only harms himself does not preclude it from being classified as a mental disorder.

Brett Persistently Injects Himself with Pain Killers