What does the term tolerance mean in a substance abuse context?

In the context of substance abuse, tolerance refers to the body's adaptation to a substance, leading to a decrease in its effects over time. When a person develops tolerance, they require larger doses of the substance to achieve the same effect that they previously experienced with a smaller amount. This resistance to the effects of the substance is a key concept in understanding how individuals may escalate their use in order to achieve desired outcomes, which can contribute to the cycle of addiction.

This definition of tolerance helps to clarify why this concept is crucial in the realm of substance abuse treatment and intervention. Without recognizing that individuals may need increasing amounts to feel the same effects, one might misunderstand their usage patterns, potentially overlooking the severity of their condition or behavior. The other options, while related to substance use disorders, do not specifically define tolerance within this context.