Piper is terribly afraid of a number of different situations, such as using public transportation, being in open spaces, and standing in line. Which psychological disorder is Piper most likely experiencing?

• A. Specific phobia
• B. Agoraphobia
• C. Panic disorder
• D. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the key features of Piper's fears. Piper is afraid of multiple situations including using public transportation, being in open spaces, and standing in line.
2. Step 2: Understand the definitions of the disorders listed: Specific phobia involves intense fear of a particular object or situation; Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks; Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves unwanted repetitive thoughts and behaviors; Agoraphobia involves fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often including public places and crowds.
3. Step 3: Compare Piper's fears to the characteristics of each disorder. Since Piper fears multiple broad situations related to being outside or in crowds, this aligns more with agoraphobia rather than a specific phobia, which is usually limited to one specific object or situation.
4. Step 4: Recognize that agoraphobia typically includes fear of public transportation, open spaces, and standing in line, matching Piper's symptoms.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the psychological disorder Piper is most likely experiencing is agoraphobia based on the pattern of fears described.