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Jillian worries about germs all the time and engages in washing her hands many times during the day. Her handwashing behavior and worries interfere with her completing any of her daily tasks. Jillian would most likely be diagnosed with

A. obsessive-compulsive disorder.
B. illness anxiety disorder.
C. somatic symptom disorder.
D. panic disorder.

User Chondrops
by
8.5k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Jillian's excessive handwashing and worry about germs likely point to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition characterized by persistent thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Illness anxiety disorder, somatic symptom disorder, and panic disorder are not consistent with her specific symptoms. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing OCD. B. illness anxiety disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

Jillian is exhibiting symptoms that align with a certain psychological condition. The key aspect of her behavior is an excessive concern about cleanliness, leading her to frequently wash her hands to the point where it interferes with her daily activities. This is indicative of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a mental health disorder characterized by unwanted, persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) such as hand washing. OCD can be deeply distressing and can significantly impact a person's ability to function in various aspects of life.

While illness anxiety disorder is characterized by preoccupation with having a serious illness, and somatic symptom disorder involves an intense focus on physical symptoms, Jillian's behaviors are specifically centered around contamination fears and hand washing rituals. This distinguishes OCD as the most likely diagnosis for her condition. Panic disorder, on the other hand, is marked by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms, which is not consistent with Jillian's described behaviors.

Understanding the nuances of different mental health disorders is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. In Jillian's case, her behavior aligns with the diagnostic criteria for OCD, as outlined in sources like Abramowitz & Siqueland's text on psychopathology. Effective management of OCD often involves cognitive behavioral therapy, particularly exposure and response prevention, and sometimes medication. It is essential for individuals displaying such symptoms to seek professional help to improve their quality of life.

Final answer:

Jillian's excessive handwashing and worry about germs likely point to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition characterized by persistent thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Illness anxiety disorder, somatic symptom disorder, and panic disorder are not consistent with her specific symptoms. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing OCD. B. illness anxiety disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

Jillian is exhibiting symptoms that align with a certain psychological condition. The key aspect of her behavior is an excessive concern about cleanliness, leading her to frequently wash her hands to the point where it interferes with her daily activities. This is indicative of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a mental health disorder characterized by unwanted, persistent thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) such as hand washing. OCD can be deeply distressing and can significantly impact a person's ability to function in various aspects of life.

While illness anxiety disorder is characterized by preoccupation with having a serious illness, and somatic symptom disorder involves an intense focus on physical symptoms, Jillian's behaviors are specifically centered around contamination fears and hand washing rituals. This distinguishes OCD as the most likely diagnosis for her condition. Panic disorder, on the other hand, is marked by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms, which is not consistent with Jillian's described behaviors.

Understanding the nuances of different mental health disorders is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. In Jillian's case, her behavior aligns with the diagnostic criteria for OCD, as outlined in sources like Abramowitz & Siqueland's text on psychopathology. Effective management of OCD often involves cognitive behavioral therapy, particularly exposure and response prevention, and sometimes medication. It is essential for individuals displaying such symptoms to seek professional help to improve their quality of life.

User Raon
by
7.9k points
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