A patient reports that her first panic attack was frightening and embarrassing.She was in the mall and people gathered around her.Over the next few months,the attacks started occurring more frequently,almost always in public places.Now she is afraid to leave the safety of her house.Which diagnosis is most appropriate?
A)agoraphobia.
B)schizophrenia.
C)bipolar disorder.
D)dissociative fugue.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's fear of leaving the safety of her house and the occurrence of panic attacks in public places suggest agoraphobia, which is often triggered by a fear of having a panic attack in a place where escape would be difficult or embarrassing. None of the other options fit the symptoms described by the patient.

A Patient Reports That Her First Panic Attack Was Frightening