Anxiety Disorders and Stress Q 43
A 5-year-old boy is diagnosed to have an autistic disorder. Which of the following manifestations may be noted in a client with autistic disorder?
A. Argumentativeness, disobedience, angry outburst
B. Intolerance to change, disturbed relatedness, stereotypes
C. Distractibility, impulsiveness, and overactivity
D. Aggression, truancy, stealing, lying
Correct Answer: B. Intolerance to change, disturbed relatedness, stereotypes
These are manifestations of autistic disorder. ASD is a complicated neurological disorder that is characterized by behavioral and psychological problems in children. These children become distressed when their surrounding environment is changed because their adaptive capabilities are minimal. The symptoms are present from early childhood and affect daily functioning.
Option A: These manifestations are noted in Oppositional Defiant Disorder, a disruptive disorder among children. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a type of childhood disruptive behavior disorder that primarily involves problems with the self-control of emotions and behaviors. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the main feature of ODD is a persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, or vindictiveness toward others.
Option C: These are manifestations of Attention Deficit Disorder. The symptoms begin at a young age and usually include lack of attention, lack of concentration, disorganization, difficulty completing tasks, being forgetful, and losing things. These symptoms should be present before the age of 12, have lasted six months, and interfere with daily life activities in order to be labeled as ‘ADHD’.
Option D: These are the manifestations of Conduct Disorder. CD is characterized by a pattern of behaviors that demonstrates aggression and violation of rights of others and evolves over time. Conduct disorder is comorbid with many other psychiatric conditions including depression, ADHD, learning disorders, and thus a thorough psychiatric evaluation is required to understand the psychopathology before initiating an appropriate treatment plan.