True or False: A person can develop a physical dependence on alcohol without experiencing tolerance.

A person can indeed develop a physical dependence on alcohol without necessarily experiencing tolerance. Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of alcohol, leading to withdrawal symptoms when alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped. This adaptation can happen regardless of whether tolerance has developed.

Tolerance refers to the phenomenon where increased amounts of alcohol are needed to achieve the same effects that were once achieved with smaller amounts. While it is common for individuals who consume alcohol regularly to develop both tolerance and physical dependence, it is not a requirement for dependence to occur. Someone can become dependent on the substance and experience withdrawal symptoms following cessation, even if their body has not begun to tolerate higher amounts of alcohol.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of recognizing alcohol use disorders and the complexity of dependence and tolerance, reinforcing that alcohol's effects on individuals can vary widely based on their unique situations and consumption patterns.