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LPN Nursing · Substance Use Disorders · Practice question

A person experiencing black-outs begins to sneak alcoholic drinks as his pre-occupation with drinking increases, and he becomes defensive when his drinking is mentioned. He is exhibiting signs and symptoms compatible with which of Jellinek's Stages of Alcoholism?

Answer & explanation

Correct: Phase II: Early Alcoholic

According to Jellinek's model of the stages of alcoholism, Phase II, also called the Early Alcoholic phase, is characterized by the onset of blackouts, sneaking or gulping drinks, an increasing preoccupation with alcohol, and defensive behavior when drinking is mentioned. The individual begins to lose control over drinking and may feel guilty about it, yet still denies the problem. These hallmark behaviors — blackouts, secretive drinking, preoccupation, and defensiveness — precisely match the description in the stem. Phase I, the Pre-alcoholic phase, is characterized by using alcohol for stress relief and building tolerance, without the blackouts or deceptive behaviors seen here. Phase III, the Crucial phase, involves a complete loss of control over drinking, with social and occupational consequences becoming evident, including job loss, family problems, and possible medical complications. Phase IV, the Chronic phase, is the most advanced stage, marked by daily intoxication, physical deterioration, ethical breakdown, and impaired thinking. Because the patient in the stem is exhibiting blackouts, sneaking drinks, preoccupation, and defensiveness — but has not yet shown the severe loss of control and social collapse of Phase III or the daily intoxication and physical decline of Phase IV — Phase II Early Alcoholic is the correct answer.

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