LMHC Psychopathology and Diagnosis

Question 1

According to the DSM-5, which criterion differentiates Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) from Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Accepted Answer

MDD requires at least 5 symptoms for 2+ weeks; Persistent Depressive Disorder requires at least 2 symptoms for 2+ years

Answer

MDD is caused by neurobiological factors only; Dysthymia is psychosocial

Answer

MDD cannot occur in children; Dysthymia can

Answer

MDD requires psychotic features; Dysthymia does not

Question 2

A client presents with episodes of elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, grandiosity, and increased goal-directed activity lasting 4 days, without significant functional impairment. The MOST appropriate DSM-5 diagnosis to consider is:

Accepted Answer

Bipolar II Disorder

Answer

Bipolar I Disorder

Answer

Cyclothymic Disorder

Answer

Major Depressive Disorder with mixed features

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a DSM-5 diagnostic criterion for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Accepted Answer

Presence of panic attacks with somatic symptoms

Answer

Difficulty controlling the worry

Answer

Worry occurring more days than not for at least 6 months

Answer

Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or irritability

Question 4

The 'negative symptoms' of schizophrenia include all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Auditory hallucinations

Answer

Avolition

Answer

Alogia

Answer

Flat affect

Question 5

A client reports a persistent, irrational fear of spiders that causes them to avoid outdoor activities. They recognize the fear is excessive. The MOST appropriate DSM-5 diagnosis is:

Accepted Answer

Specific Phobia, animal type

Answer

Social Anxiety Disorder

Answer

Agoraphobia

Answer

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the 'diathesis-stress model' as it applies to mental health disorders?

Accepted Answer

Disorders result from the interaction between a predisposition (vulnerability) and environmental stressors

Answer

Mental health disorders are caused solely by genetic factors

Answer

Stress alone is sufficient to cause any mental health disorder

Answer

Biological factors protect individuals from the effects of environmental stress