Jekaterina takes an illegal drug - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 17 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 17
Jekaterina takes an illegal drug. At first, she only took the drug a couple of times a week, but she now takes the drug daily. She finds that she needs to take twice... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Jekaterina takes an illegal drug - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 17 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Define Physical Dependence on Drugs
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Answer
A person is considered to be physically dependent on a drug when they have developed tolerance and experience withdrawal symptoms.
Tolerance occurs when the body has adapted to the drug, necessitating a higher dosage to achieve the same effects as when the drug was first used.
Step 2
Discuss Jekaterina's Physical Dependence
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Jekaterina is physically dependent on the illegal drug, as evidenced by her withdrawal symptoms and increasing tolerance to the drug. Initially, she took the drug a couple of times a week, but now requires it daily, doubling the amount she initially took to feel the same effects. This is a clear sign of tolerance.
Step 3
Explain Withdrawal Symptoms
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When Jekaterina does not take the drug, she experiences severe headaches. This illustrates a withdrawal symptom, which is common in individuals who are physically dependent on substances.
Step 4
Highlight Psychological Dependence
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Furthermore, Jekaterina displays signs of psychological dependence. She believes she cannot manage her stressful job without the support of the illegal drug, indicating an emotional reliance on it.
