The prodromal syndrome in the development of psychological disorders consists of all of the following except:

• A. Mild or subthreshold symptoms
• B. A gradual decline in functioning
• C. Social withdrawal
• D. Sudden onset of severe symptoms

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'prodromal syndrome' as it relates to psychological disorders. It refers to the early signs and symptoms that precede the full development of a disorder, often characterized by subtle or mild changes.
2. Identify the typical features of the prodromal phase, which usually include mild or subthreshold symptoms, a gradual decline in functioning, and social withdrawal. These symptoms develop slowly and indicate the beginning of a disorder.
3. Recognize that the prodromal phase is not associated with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Instead, severe symptoms typically appear later, during the acute or full-blown phase of the disorder.
4. Compare each option given in the problem to the characteristics of the prodromal phase. Note that 'sudden onset of severe symptoms' does not fit the gradual and mild nature of the prodromal phase.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the option that does not align with the prodromal syndrome characteristics, which is the 'sudden onset of severe symptoms.'