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Which pattern defines persistent depressive disorder, previously known as dysthymia?
ADepressed mood most days for at least two years
BDepressed mood every day for at least two weeks
CDepressed mood only during one season of the year
DDepressed mood alternating with weeks of elation
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. Depressed mood most days for at least two years
1. Persistent depressive disorder means depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two years.
2. At least two of the other symptoms of major depressive disorder must also be present.
3. Those affected are chronically sad and melancholy without meeting the full criteria for major depression, though full episodes can still occur during it.
4. Two weeks with five symptoms describes major depressive disorder, and the seasonal pattern specifier covers symptoms tied to one time of year.
5. Mood alternating with elation points towards bipolar disorder rather than a depressive disorder.
_Source: OpenStax Psychology (1st ed., CC BY 4.0), Ch 15 "Psychological Disorders", section 15.7 Mood Disorders_
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