Michelle is a 5-year-old girl with a history of gastrointestinal problems that cause her stomach cramps and gastric reflux (i.e., stomach acid burning her esophagus) and throat. These problems cause her considerable pain and discomfort. Consequently, she often avoids eating many solid foods that have caused her pain in the past. For which DSM-5 disorder might she qualify?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Michelle's symptoms fit the criteria for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, which is characterized by avoidance or restriction of foods due to sensory or experiential factors such as the food's taste, appearance, smell, or texture, as well as associated fear of negative consequences (e.g., choking, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions). In Michelle's case, her avoidance of certain foods is due to past experiences of pain and discomfort, which fits the criteria for this disorder. Pica involves the persistent ingestion of non-food substances, which is not applicable to Michelle's case. Rumination Disorder involves the regurgitation and re-chewing of food, which also does not apply to Michelle's symptoms.

Michelle Is a 5-Year-Old Girl with a History of Gastrointestinal