How does the Navy define "alcoholism"?

The Navy defines "alcoholism" as depending on alcohol psychologically and/or physiologically. This definition encompasses both the mental and physical aspects of addiction, recognizing that alcoholism is not merely about the amount of alcohol consumed but involves a significant dependency that can affect an individual's behavior, decision-making, and overall health. It highlights the seriousness of the condition, acknowledging that individuals may struggle with cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and the inability to control their drinking behavior, which can lead to various personal, social, and occupational problems.

The other options focus on behaviors related to drinking but do not encompass the full scope of what constitutes alcoholism. For instance, complying with social drinking customs refers to social norms rather than dependency, drinking under legal age addresses legal issues rather than addiction, and doing something under the influence of alcohol relates to behavior rather than the underlying dependency itself. Understanding alcoholism in this nuanced way is vital, especially for individuals in the Navy, as it impacts both personal well-being and operational readiness.