In the context of diagnosing psychological disorders, what is tardive dyskinesia most accurately defined as?

• A. A cognitive disorder involving memory loss and confusion
• B. A mood disorder involving persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest
• C. A movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, often resulting from long-term use of antipsychotic medications
• D. A type of anxiety disorder marked by sudden episodes of intense fear

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question, which is about diagnosing psychological disorders and specifically identifying what tardive dyskinesia is.
2. Step 2: Review the definitions of the options provided: cognitive disorders (memory loss, confusion), mood disorders (persistent sadness, loss of interest), movement disorders (involuntary, repetitive movements), and anxiety disorders (sudden intense fear).
3. Step 3: Recognize that tardive dyskinesia is not related to cognitive, mood, or anxiety disorders but is associated with physical symptoms involving movement.
4. Step 4: Recall that tardive dyskinesia typically occurs as a side effect of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, leading to involuntary, repetitive movements.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most accurate definition of tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, often resulting from long-term use of antipsychotic medications.