WGU D403 HLTH 3330 Understanding Substance Abuse & Addiction FA READINESS EXAM Q & S 2025/2026
1. Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the
reward pathway and is often dysregulated in substance
abuse?
 - A) Serotonin
 - B) Dopamine
 - C) Norepinephrine
 - D) GABA
 Correct Answer: B) Dopamine
 Rationale: Dopamine is crucial for the brain's reward
system and is heavily involved in the mechanisms of
addiction.
2. What is the primary mechanism of action for opioids?
 - A) Inhibition of serotonin reuptake
 - B) Agonism of GABA receptors
 - C) Agonism of mu-opioid receptors
 - D) Stimulation of dopamine release
 Correct Answer: C) Agonism of mu-opioid receptors
 Rationale: Opioids primarily exert their effects through
the activation of mu-opioid receptors, leading to pain relief
and euphoria.
3. Which of the following is considered a harm reduction
strategy in substance abuse treatment?
 - A) Abstinence-only programs
 - B) Needle exchange programs
 - C) Twelve-step programs
 - D) Confrontational therapy
 Correct Answer: B) Needle exchange programs
 Rationale: Needle exchange programs are designed to
reduce the risk of HIV and other infections by providing
clean syringes.