Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

Which of the following is a criterion required for the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder?

1. Duration of the disturbance associated with the traumatic event is more than two months

2. Persistent pursuance of stimuli related to the traumatic event, beginning after the event has occurred

3. Presence of two or more intrusion symptoms associated with the traumatic event and beginning after the event has occurred

4. Marked alterations in mood and cognition associated with and beginning after the traumatic event

The correct answer is: Marked alterations in mood and cognition associated with and beginning after the traumatic event

For the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), one of the key criteria involves marked alterations in mood and cognition that are related to the trauma experienced. The presence of these alterations is critical because they indicate the psychological impact of the traumatic event on the individual's functioning. These mood and cognitive changes can manifest as persistent negative thoughts about oneself or others, distorted blame of oneself or others for the cause of the trauma, or diminished interest in activities that were previously enjoyable. This directly ties to the overall diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, which emphasizes the importance of these symptoms in distinguishing PTSD from other psychiatric conditions or responses to stress. While other options may describe related symptoms or characteristics seen in trauma-related disorders, they do not encapsulate the essential requirement for mood and cognition changes that are precisely defined in the diagnostic criteria for PTSD. The alterations in mood and cognition not only reflect the emotional turmoil that results from trauma but also shape how individuals perceive their world post-event, further demonstrating their relevance in the diagnostic framework.