Which of the following would be considered an acute problem for which a new patient would seek care?

• A. Persistent obsessive-compulsive symptoms since childhood
• B. A sudden onset of panic attacks
• C. Chronic low-grade depression lasting several years
• D. Long-term difficulty maintaining relationships

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of an acute problem in psychology. An acute problem is typically characterized by a sudden onset and a relatively short duration, often requiring immediate or prompt attention.
2. Step 2: Review each option and identify whether the problem described is acute or chronic. Chronic problems are long-lasting and persistent, while acute problems arise suddenly and may be severe.
3. Step 3: Analyze 'Persistent obsessive-compulsive symptoms since childhood' — this indicates a long-term, ongoing issue, so it is chronic rather than acute.
4. Step 4: Analyze 'A sudden onset of panic attacks' — this describes a rapid and recent emergence of symptoms, fitting the definition of an acute problem.
5. Step 5: Analyze 'Chronic low-grade depression lasting several years' and 'Long-term difficulty maintaining relationships' — both describe enduring, ongoing issues, which are chronic rather than acute.