According to DSM-5, how many of the six associated physical or cognitive symptoms must be present in an ADULT for a diagnosis of Generalised Anxiety Disorder?

• A At least 1 of the 6 symptoms
• B At least 3 of the 6 symptoms ✓
• C At least 2 of the 6 symptoms
• D At least 4 of the 6 symptoms

Explanation

DSM-5 requires only one associated symptom (restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension, sleep disturbance) in children and adolescents, but at least three of the six in adults. This lowered threshold for children is unique among DSM-5 criteria sets and is a frequently tested distinction. Option A describes the paediatric requirement, not the adult one.

Reference: Kaplan and Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 12th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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