Which statement best describes 'dependent drinking'?

Dependent drinking is characterized by regular consumption of alcohol despite experiencing negative consequences. This includes situations where an individual persists in drinking even when it affects their health, relationships, work, or legal standing. This behavior indicates a level of dependence on alcohol, where the individual may find it challenging to control their drinking and feels compelled to continue despite awareness of the adverse effects.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of dependent drinking. Drinking patterns that rely on social situations describe social drinkers who may not necessarily face negative consequences or exhibit dependency. Infrequent drinking with minimal impact on daily life does not signify a dependence; in fact, it suggests moderation. A brief period of heavy drinking followed by abstinence may point to binge drinking behaviors, but it does not align with the continuous and problematic consumption that characterizes dependent drinking. Thus, the statement that reflects the reality of dependent drinking is one that emphasizes ongoing use despite its harmful effects.