Ten-year-old Sharita has appeared sad and tearful much of the time over the past three weeks.She shows little interest in playing the games she used to enjoy,rarely feels like eating,frequently complains of stomachaches,and lies awake at night,unable to fall asleep.Which of the following DSM-IV-TR diagnoses would best fit Sharita?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sharita's symptoms are consistent with a major depressive episode, including persistent sadness, loss of interest, somatic complaints, and sleep disturbance. Dysthymic disorder would require symptoms lasting for at least two years and depressive reaction of childhood is no longer a valid diagnosis. Separation anxiety disorder would require specific fears related to separation from attachment figures.

Ten-Year-Old Sharita Has Appeared Sad and Tearful Much of the Time