DSM-5 distinguishes Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) from PTSD primarily by which criterion?
- A ASD requires flashbacks; PTSD does not
- B ASD symptom duration is 3 days to 1 month following trauma; PTSD requires symptoms beyond 1 month ✓
- C ASD is diagnosed only in children; PTSD in adults
- D ASD requires at least 14 dissociative symptoms; PTSD requires intrusion and avoidance
Correct answer: B. ASD symptom duration is 3 days to 1 month following trauma; PTSD requires symptoms beyond 1 month
Explanation
In DSM-5, Acute Stress Disorder requires the presence of 9 or more symptoms from five categories (intrusion, negative mood, dissociation, avoidance, arousal) for 3 days to 1 month following traumatic exposure. If symptoms persist beyond 1 month and meet PTSD criteria, the diagnosis changes to PTSD. ASD predicts subsequent PTSD development in approximately 50% of cases. The requirement for 14 dissociative symptoms (option D) is incorrect; dissociative symptoms are part of the 9-symptom threshold but not the sole criterion.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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