Which of the following is NOT a symptom of the DSM-5 substance use disorder?

The reasoning behind identifying avoiding substance use in situations where use poses physical hazards as not a symptom of DSM-5 substance use disorder is rooted in the defining characteristics of the disorder. The DSM-5 outlines a range of criterion that reflects the negative impact of substance use on an individual's life.

The listed symptoms typically include behaviors that indicate a loss of control over substance use, an increasing tolerance to substances, engagement in risky behaviors while under the influence, and a failure to meet responsibilities. On the other hand, the act of avoiding substance use in situations that could lead to physical harm suggests a level of awareness and control over one’s substance use. This behavior is in fact indicative of functioning in a manner that is more responsible, suggesting that the individual is not truly experiencing a substance use disorder.

In this context, engaging in risky behavior or being unable to fulfill obligations denotes a clear impairment in judgment and behavioral control, which aligns with the essence of substance use disorders. Tolerance development also signifies an adaptation to substance use that can exacerbate the disorder. Thus, the absence of risky behavior in specific scenarios reflects a level of self-regulation that runs counter to the disordered patterns of use defined in the DSM-5 criteria.