Kevin Stover is a 14 year-old boy who was referred to the school social worker for problems focusing on his studies. Kevin admits to difficulties concentrating and confides that he has been feeling "down" all the time for the past school year. He remembers the only time this feeling went away was, "only for a coupla weeks last summer when I went to visit my Uncle Mark. He's really cool. But then that down feeling came back as soon as I got home," states Kevin. He denies any suicidal thoughts but admits to feelings of hopelessness, and low self-esteem. What is the most likely diagnosis for Kevin?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kevin's symptoms, including feeling "down" all the time for more than a year, with only a brief period of relief, suggest Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) with early onset. Major Depressive Disorder typically involves more intense symptoms over a shorter period, Schizoaffective Disorder includes symptoms of schizophrenia, and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is characterized by severe temper outbursts, which Kevin does not report.

Kevin Stover Is a 14 Year-Old Boy Who Was Referred