Final answer:
The sudden occurrence of multiple psychological and physiological symptoms contributing to stark terror defines a panic attack. Panic attacks involve a variety of symptoms that peak within minutes, differing from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders. So the correct answer is option (C).
Step-by-step explanation:
The sudden occurrence of multiple psychological and physiological symptoms that contribute to a feeling of stark terror defines a c) panic attack. Panic attacks are characterized by intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes and includes at least four of the following symptoms: palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, feelings of choking, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, chills or heat sensations, paresthesia, derealization or depersonalization, fear of losing control, fear of dying, and numbness.
This definition aligns with the findings of Kessler et al. (2006) which explore the epidemiology of panic attacks, panic disorder, and agoraphobia. Comparatively, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic stress reaction that can follow exposure to severe psychological trauma like military combat or natural disasters.
While panic attacks can occur within the context of other anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, they are distinct from the other disorders mentioned: schizophrenia, dissociative identity disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.