Cole spends a few weeks being treated for major depressive disorder. Which of the following best describes the type of disorder he is experiencing?

• A. Somatic symptom disorder
• B. Psychotic disorder
• C. Personality disorder
• D. Mood disorder

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key term 'major depressive disorder' which is a clinical diagnosis characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and other emotional and physical symptoms.
2. Step 2: Recognize that major depressive disorder falls under the broader category of mood disorders, which primarily affect a person's emotional state.
3. Step 3: Differentiate mood disorders from other types of disorders such as somatic symptom disorders (which involve physical symptoms without a medical cause), psychotic disorders (which involve distorted thinking and perceptions), and personality disorders (which involve enduring patterns of behavior and inner experience).
4. Step 4: Identify that since Cole is being treated for major depressive disorder, the best description of his condition is a mood disorder.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct classification for Cole's disorder is 'Mood disorder' based on the nature of his symptoms and diagnosis.