Juanita was very upset and distraught at her father's funeral. As his coffin was being lowered into the grave, she suddenly experienced heart palpitations, dizziness, and the feeling that she was going crazy. She started to scream and swear, and hit out at those around her, but was immediately comforted and embraced by her family members. Juanita may have experienced a syndrome called _____, which has been reported in many Latin American cultures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ataque de nervios, which translates to "attack of nerves," is a culture-bound syndrome commonly reported in Latin American cultures. It is characterized by sudden episodes of intense emotional distress, usually triggered by a stressful event. Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, and the feeling of going crazy, as well as physical manifestations such as shouting, crying, and hitting out. The symptoms are often followed by a sense of relief and exhaustion. Given Juanita's cultural background and the symptoms described, ataque de nervios is the most likely diagnosis.

Juanita Was Very Upset and Distraught at Her Father's Funeral