According to DSM-5 criteria for somatic symptom disorder, for what minimum duration must at least one somatic symptom be present?
- A 6 months ✓
- B 3 months
- C 1 month
- D 2 years
Correct answer: A. 6 months
Explanation
Criterion B of DSM-5 somatic symptom disorder requires persistent symptomatic state, defined as at least one somatic symptom that is present for at least six months, though the specific symptom may vary over time. The one-month threshold applies to brief psychotic disorder, three months was relevant to some DSM-IV somatoform categories, and two years corresponds to the old ICD-10 neurasthenia concept rather than DSM-5 criteria.
Reference: DSM-5, American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ed.
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