John reports that he is very concerned because he feels as if something in his spinal column is "off." This appears to upset him, and he visits multiple doctors in an attempt to validate his concerns. The doctors find no evidence for a diagnosis. Further, on investigation, it is found that John has reported to his supervisor that he could not attend work for a few weeks due to a back injury. Which diagnosis is MOST appropriate for John?
A) somatic symptom disorder
B) factitious disorder
C) illness anxiety disorder
D) No diagnosis. John is malingering.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

John's behavior of reporting a condition without medical evidence, primarily to avoid work, aligns with malingering, which is not a mental illness but rather a behavior where someone feigns or exaggerates illness for secondary gain, such as avoiding work.

John Reports That He Is Very Concerned Because He Feels