Understanding Denial in Substance Use Disorders

A 28-year-old male is being treated for alcohol use disorder. During a counseling session, he states, "I can quit drinking whenever I want; I just choose not to." This statement reflects a core characteristic of ________ that often hinders recovery. This disorder is characterized by an individual's inability to realize the extent of their problems related to substance use. Fill in the blank with the correct term that describes this phenomenon.