Using alcohol as an example, any modern definition will differentiate between harmful drinking, high risk drinking, and alcohol dependence. Definitions of depen

Using alcohol as an example, any modern definition will differentiate between harmful drinking, high risk drinking, and alcohol dependence. Definitions of dependence will include statements like: > Someone who is alcohol-dependent may persist in drinking, despite harmful consequences. They will also give alcohol a higher priority than other activities and obligations. It's this element of continuing to do something even though it's causing harm that is one of the markers of addiction.