Which of the following describes substance abuse according to the clinical criteria?

The description of substance abuse according to clinical criteria focuses on a pattern of behavior that leads to significant impairment or distress in various aspects of an individual's life. This includes repeated use of substances despite negative consequences or problems arising from that use.

The correct choice highlights that the pattern is maladaptive, meaning it does not adjust appropriately or positively in response to life circumstances, leading to challenges in the individual's functioning, such as health issues, legal troubles, or difficulties in personal relationships. This aligns with how substance use disorders are diagnosed based on established clinical guidelines, such as those outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

In contrast, the other options refer to situations that do not meet the clinical criteria for substance abuse. Recreational use without negative consequences reflects a healthy use of substances rather than abuse. A temporary change in substance use without clinical concern suggests that the use does not affect the individual's functioning in a detrimental way. A single incident of substance use resulting in problems lacks the ongoing pattern necessary for a diagnosis of substance abuse, which is pivotal in understanding the severity and impact of substance-related issues.