When diagnosing psychological disorders, which disorder is most strongly associated with a higher risk for suicide?

• A. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• B. Major depressive disorder
• C. Specific phobia
• D. Somatic symptom disorder

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question, which is about identifying the psychological disorder most strongly linked to an increased risk of suicide.
2. Step 2: Review the characteristics of each disorder listed: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Major depressive disorder (MDD), Specific phobia, and Somatic symptom disorder.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, which are strongly correlated with suicidal ideation and attempts.
4. Step 4: Compare the risk levels of suicide associated with each disorder, noting that while OCD, specific phobias, and somatic symptom disorder can cause distress, they generally have a lower direct association with suicide risk than Major depressive disorder.
5. Step 5: Conclude that Major depressive disorder is the disorder most strongly associated with a higher risk for suicide based on clinical research and diagnostic criteria.