Final Answer:
To meet criteria for a major depressive disorder, a patient must have symptoms for 2 weeks.The correct option is B. 2 weeks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the criteria for diagnosing MDD include the presence of depressive symptoms for at least two weeks.
The two-week duration is crucial because it helps distinguish a major depressive episode from temporary mood fluctuations that may occur in response to life events.
This timeframe ensures that the symptoms are not just a brief reaction to stressors but reflect a more enduring and clinically significant disturbance in mood. This diagnostic criterion is essential for accurately identifying individuals who may benefit from interventions such as psychotherapy or medication.
In clinical practice, mental health professionals rely on the DSM-5 guidelines to make accurate and consistent diagnoses. Adhering to the two-week duration criterion helps ensure a standardized approach to diagnosing MDD, promoting reliability and validity in the assessment of mental health conditions.
Overall, the specificity of the duration requirement contributes to the precision and effectiveness of clinical assessments and subsequent treatment plans for individuals experiencing major depressive episodes.
The correct option is B. 2 weeks.