Which of the following is NOT a typical sign of adolescent substance use disorder?

• A. Craving
• B. Tolerance
• C. Withdrawal symptoms
• D. Improved academic performance

Answer: (D)

Signs of adolescent substance use disorder center on dependence and impaired functioning. Craving is the strong, persistent urge to use, showing how the brain is motivated to seek the substance. Tolerance reflects neuroadaptation, where more of the substance is needed to achieve the same effect. Withdrawal symptoms occur when the substance is reduced or stopped, indicating the body has become dependent. In contrast, an improvement in academic performance is not a typical sign; substance use generally disrupts attention, memory, and executive function, leading to declines in schoolwork rather than improvements.