A man was told by his boss that his work had really gone downhill rece

A man was told by his boss that his work had really gone downhill recently and he had to improve or the boss would have to let him go. His wife had moved out of the apartment. Obviously, the drug use was causing problems.

A man was told by his boss that his work had really gone downhill recently and he had to improve or the boss would have to let him go. His wife had moved out of the apartment. Obviously, the drug use was causing problems. Which of the following would cause the man to continue to use? (Select all that apply.)
a.
He had paid a lot for this stuff so he had just finished using what he had and then he had quit.
b.
He rationalized he was just hitting a rough spot and, as soon as he got over his wife’s betrayal, he would quit using and his job would be fine.
c.
He tried to quit, but the withdrawal symptoms were so severe he could not.
d.
He verbalized quitting, but his new friends scoffed at him.
e.
His boss clearly did not understand what he was dealing with and had not a clue what pressure he was under—so ignoring him was the only option.
f.
He knew drug use made him legally handicapped so his boss could not fire him even if he wanted to.

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: A, B, C, D
In the transition stage from substance use to substance abuse, there may be clear evidence that there are adverse effects. Rationalizations that deny the seriousness and consequences of the substance use are commonly constructed. Unpleasant physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms are strong motivators to continue use. Being in an environment where others are using will encourage the person to continue using to fit in (peer pressure). The boss clearly understands what is going on, which is why the situation has been addressed. It is unlikely that the drug would make him legally handicapped.