Which of the following psychological disorders is most likely to be diagnosed in a 40 year old patient without a history of seizures who presents with persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns?

• A. Schizophrenia
• B. Major depressive disorder
• C. Epilepsy
• D. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the key symptoms presented by the patient: persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns.
2. Step 2: Understand that these symptoms are characteristic of mood disorders, particularly depressive disorders, rather than disorders primarily involving psychosis, seizures, or compulsive behaviors.
3. Step 3: Review the diagnostic criteria for each disorder listed: Schizophrenia involves psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions; Epilepsy involves recurrent seizures; Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the absence of seizure history rules out Epilepsy, and the symptoms do not align with the core features of Schizophrenia or Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the symptoms best match Major Depressive Disorder, which is characterized by persistent sadness, anhedonia (loss of interest), and changes in appetite and sleep.