Counseling Psychopathology and Diagnosis (DSM-5-TR) — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which duration of symptoms is required for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder in an adult under the DSM-5-TR?
- At least 1 week
- At least 2 weeks (Correct answer)
- At least 6 months
- At least 1 year
Correct answer: At least 2 weeks
A major depressive episode requires five or more symptoms present during the same 2-week period, including depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, along with clinically significant distress or impairment.
Question 2: Generalized Anxiety Disorder requires excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least how long?
- 2 weeks
- 1 month
- 6 months (Correct answer)
- 12 months
Correct answer: 6 months
The DSM-5-TR requires excessive worry about multiple events or activities, more days than not, for at least 6 months, along with at least three associated symptoms in adults.
Question 3: A client experiences a persistent pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy beginning in early adulthood. Which diagnosis best fits?
- Borderline personality disorder
- Histrionic personality disorder
- Narcissistic personality disorder (Correct answer)
- Antisocial personality disorder
Correct answer: Narcissistic personality disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by grandiosity, a need for admiration, and lack of empathy. These traits distinguish it from the other Cluster B disorders.
Question 4: Which of the following is a hallmark feature of Bipolar I Disorder?
- At least one manic episode (Correct answer)
- Only hypomanic episodes
- Persistent depressive mood for 2 years
- Recurrent panic attacks
Correct answer: At least one manic episode
A diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder requires at least one manic episode. Hypomanic and major depressive episodes may occur but are not required. Bipolar II involves hypomania and major depression with no full manic episode.
Question 5: A client reports intrusive, unwanted thoughts about contamination and washes their hands for hours each day. Which disorder is most consistent with these symptoms?
- Specific phobia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (Correct answer)
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Illness anxiety disorder
Correct answer: Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Obsessions (intrusive thoughts) paired with compulsions (repetitive behaviors performed to reduce distress) that consume significant time, such as more than an hour per day, indicate OCD.
Question 6: Which symptom cluster is NOT part of the diagnostic criteria for PTSD in the DSM-5-TR?
- Intrusion symptoms
- Avoidance of trauma-related stimuli
- Negative alterations in cognitions and mood
- Disorganized speech and catatonia (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Disorganized speech and catatonia
PTSD criteria include intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity. Disorganized speech and catatonia are associated with psychotic disorders.
