What is the term for the repeated use of a substance despite it causing social or psychological issues?

The term for the repeated use of a substance despite it causing social or psychological problems is substance abuse. This condition reflects a pattern of behavior where an individual continues to consume the substance even when they are aware that it is having negative effects on their life, such as detrimental impacts on relationships, work, or mental health. Substance abuse signifies a recognition of the harmful consequences of the substance but an inability to stop using it.

Substance dependence typically refers to a more severe condition where a person has developed a tolerance to the substance, experiences withdrawal symptoms, and feels a compulsion to seek and use the substance, even in the face of adverse consequences. In contrast, tolerance refers specifically to the body's adaptation to a substance, requiring more of it to achieve the same effects, and abstinence syndrome is the withdrawal symptoms experienced when stopping a substance after prolonged use.

By understanding these terms, it becomes clear that substance abuse focuses on the ongoing use of a substance despite clear negative outcomes, making it the correct response to the question.