Legal Definitions - abstinence

Abstinence refers to the deliberate and complete avoidance of a particular activity or substance that one might otherwise indulge in. It signifies a conscious decision to refrain entirely from a specific behavior or consumption.

• Example 1: After recognizing a pattern of excessive spending, an individual might commit to abstinence from all non-essential retail purchases for a period of six months.

  Explanation: In this scenario, the individual is practicing abstinence by completely refraining from the act of buying items that are not strictly necessary, demonstrating a total avoidance of that specific indulgence.

• Example 2: A person participating in a health challenge might choose abstinence from all added sugars in their diet for 30 days.

  Explanation: This illustrates abstinence as the individual is entirely avoiding the consumption of any food or drink containing added sugars, making a conscious and complete choice to refrain from that dietary component.

• Example 3: Following a period of intense online activity, a professional might decide to practice abstinence from all video gaming for a month to improve focus and productivity.

  Explanation: Here, abstinence is demonstrated by the professional's complete and intentional avoidance of video gaming, highlighting a conscious decision to refrain entirely from that particular recreational activity.