NCE Diagnosis and Psychopathology

Question 1

According to the DSM-5, which of the following is a key distinguishing feature between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Accepted Answer

MDD episodes last at least 2 weeks; Dysthymia involves persistent low mood for at least 2 years

Answer

MDD requires psychotic features; Dysthymia does not

Answer

Dysthymia can only be diagnosed in children; MDD applies to adults

Answer

MDD requires a prior manic episode to distinguish it from Dysthymia

Question 2

A client reports hearing voices telling them they are chosen by God, believing they have special powers, going 4 days without sleep, and feeling on top of the world. Which DSM-5 diagnosis is MOST likely?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar I Disorder, Manic Episode

Answer

Schizophrenia

Answer

Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features

Answer

Cyclothymic Disorder

Question 3

Which of the following BEST differentiates Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) from normal worry?

Accepted Answer

GAD involves excessive, uncontrollable worry that causes significant impairment across multiple domains

Answer

GAD worries are always about physical health concerns only

Answer

Normal worry occurs only in response to real threats; GAD worry has no identifiable trigger

Answer

GAD requires panic attacks to distinguish it from normal anxiety

Question 4

A counselor uses the CAGE screening tool with a client. What substance use concern does CAGE primarily screen for?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol use disorder

Answer

Opioid use disorder

Answer

Cannabis use disorder

Answer

Benzodiazepine dependence

Question 5

The essential feature of Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) in the DSM-5 is:

Accepted Answer

One or more distressing somatic symptoms accompanied by excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to those symptoms

Answer

Physical symptoms must be medically unexplained

Answer

The client must be feigning physical illness for external gain

Answer

The disorder can only be diagnosed after all medical causes are ruled out

Question 6

According to the DSM-5, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is classified under which category?

Accepted Answer

Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders

Answer

Anxiety Disorders

Answer

Depressive Disorders

Answer

Dissociative Disorders