Question 1

Chris, a successful music major, is preparing for his recital next week. He has experienced severe stage fright in the past. Which of the following classes of medication would most likely be recommended?

Accepted Answer

Beta blockers are often recommended for individuals who experience severe stage fright or performance anxiety. Beta blockers can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling, without affecting cognitive function or causing sedation. This can help individuals perform at their best without being hindered by their anxiety.

Question 2

In GAD, which of the following is true?

Accepted Answer

Worrying in GAD may be associated with a belief that it keeps loved ones safe, which is consistent with choice B. Choice A is incorrect because GAD is actually more common in older adults. Choice C is incorrect because GAD is characterized by excessive, pervasive worry across multiple areas of life. Choice D is incorrect because the presence of ritualistic behaviors is more indicative of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Question 3

Susan, a 35-year-old single female who has a history of panic attacks that interfere with her working, has become afraid to go out alone and prefers to have a family member stay with her at home at all times. The most appropriate diagnosis based on this limited information is

Accepted Answer

Susan's symptoms indicate that she experiences panic attacks and has developed a fear of going out alone, which is a common symptom of agoraphobia. This is often seen in individuals with panic disorder, making Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia the most appropriate diagnosis. The other options are less likely based on the limited information provided.

Question 4

Leonard avoids going out to eat with his family at restaurants. He is concerned that others may watch him and criticize his table manners. Which is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Leonard's avoidance of restaurants is driven by his concern about being watched and criticized by others, indicating a fear of social scrutiny. This is a hallmark symptom of social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia. Agoraphobia involves fear of being in places or situations where escape might be difficult, while specific situational phobia involves fear of a particular object or situation (such as heights or flying). Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive and uncontrollable worry about a variety of events and situations.

Question 5

It can be said that in the fear system, the amygdala

Accepted Answer

The amygdala serves as a response center for danger and fear. It is responsible for processing and reacting to threats in the environment.

Question 6

In considering maintenance treatment for a patient with GAD who is anxious, agitated, and irritable and has sleep problems, which medication(s) might you select?

Accepted Answer

Paroxetine and sertraline are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which have been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of GAD, including anxiety, irritability, agitation, and sleep disturbances. Bupropion and dopamine agonists are not typically used as first-line treatments for GAD, and alprazolam is a benzodiazepine with a high risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Question 7

Types of specific phobias include all of the following except

Accepted Answer

Public speaking is actually a type of social anxiety disorder and not a specific phobia. The other options are all examples of specific phobias.

Question 8

For a patient with GAD and a history of substance abuse, one of the primary reasons for choosing buspirone (Buspar) is because it

Accepted Answer

Buspirone is a non-addictive anxiolytic medication, making it a safer choice for patients with a history of substance abuse. It does not affect serotonin reuptake, does not have strong antidepressant effects, and may not be as effective for somatic complaints compared to other medications.

Question 9

Medical disorders that should be considered as differential diagnoses of panic disorder include all of the following except

Accepted Answer

Hyperparathyroidism is not typically associated with symptoms and features that mimic panic disorder, while the other options are known to have similar symptoms and may be considered as differential diagnoses.

Question 10

Regarding generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which of the following is true?

Accepted Answer

GAD is considered to be a chronic condition, often lasting for years. Symptoms may wax and wane in severity, but typically do not fully resolve without treatment. Option A is incorrect because GAD is actually more common in older adults. Option B is also incorrect because comorbidity with other anxiety disorders and major depression is common. Option D is incorrect because GAD is not characterized by seasonal cycles.

Quiz 10: Phobias, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder