What is a key characteristic of alcoholism?

A key characteristic of alcoholism is impaired control over drinking. This refers to an individual's inability to limit their alcohol consumption despite understanding the negative consequences associated with excessive drinking. Individuals who struggle with alcoholism often find themselves drinking more than they intended or having difficulty reducing their alcohol intake. This loss of control can lead to various issues, including health problems, strained relationships, and failures to fulfill responsibilities at work or home.

The other options do not align with the characteristics of alcoholism. Healthy lifestyle choices and regular exercise habits conflict with the concept of alcoholism, as individuals with this condition commonly neglect their health and exercise routines due to their drinking behavior. Impulsive financial spending, while it can be an associated behavior in some individuals facing addiction issues, is not specific to alcoholism and can occur in various contexts unrelated to alcohol use. Therefore, the most defining characteristic of alcoholism is indeed the impaired control over drinking.