AP Psychology Practice Test

What is a psychoactive drug?

1. A medication that cures psychological disorders

2. A substance that changes mood and perceptions

3. A drug that enhances physical abilities

4. A chemical that has no effect on the mind or body

The correct answer is: A substance that changes mood and perceptions

A psychoactive drug is defined as a substance that alters mood, consciousness, perceptions, or behavior by affecting the brain's function. This definition encompasses a wide range of substances, including both legal and illegal drugs, as well as pharmaceuticals that impact mental processes. The correct choice highlights that psychoactive drugs can lead to changes in emotional states, perception of reality, and overall mental functioning. For example, substances like alcohol, caffeine, and medications for mental health conditions (such as antidepressants) can all fall under this category due to their effects on mood and perception. The other responses do not accurately capture the essence of psychoactive drugs. While a medication might be used to treat psychological disorders, it does not inherently mean that it is psychoactive in terms of altering a person’s mood and perception in a significant way. Additionally, drugs that enhance physical abilities generally do not fall into the psychoactive category since their primary effects are on physical performance rather than mental states. Lastly, a chemical that has no impact on the mind or body cannot be defined as psychoactive, as the defining trait of such substances is their ability to change mental processes.