Which of the following statements about generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is true?

• A. Individuals with GAD experience excessive and uncontrollable worry about a variety of topics for at least six months.
• B. GAD is rarely associated with physical symptoms such as restlessness or muscle tension.
• C. GAD symptoms are usually limited to specific phobias rather than general worries.
• D. GAD is characterized primarily by recurrent panic attacks and sudden feelings of terror.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). GAD is a psychological disorder characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about multiple topics or events, persisting for a significant duration, typically at least six months.
2. Step 2: Recognize the common symptoms associated with GAD. These include not only psychological symptoms like persistent worry but also physical symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the given statements by comparing them to the established criteria and symptoms of GAD. For example, note that GAD is not limited to specific phobias; rather, it involves broad and generalized anxiety.
4. Step 4: Identify that GAD is distinct from panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks and sudden intense fear, which is not the primary feature of GAD.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement is the one describing excessive and uncontrollable worry about a variety of topics lasting at least six months, as this aligns with the diagnostic criteria for GAD.