Addiction is defined as a ______________ disorder that often relapses.

Addiction is characterized as a chronic disorder because it typically involves long-term patterns of behavior and often requires ongoing management and treatment. Chronic disorders are typically characterized by their persistence over time and tendency to relapse after periods of improvement. This aligns closely with the nature of addiction, which can require continuous support and intervention due to its underlying biological, psychological, and social components. The concept of relapse is integral to understanding addiction, as individuals may experience recurring episodes of use despite previous efforts to achieve sobriety.

In contrast, acute disorders are short-term and often resolve with specific treatment, while reversible disorders imply that the condition can be fully cured. Transient implies a temporary state, which does not encapsulate the ongoing nature of addiction and its recurring challenges. Recognizing addiction as a chronic disorder helps inform treatment approaches that are sustainable and aimed at long-term recovery.