Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Which disorder is represented by chronic worry and various physical complaints, as depicted in the case of a 32-year-old man?

1. Generalized anxiety disorder

2. Hypochondriasis

3. Social anxiety disorder

4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

The correct answer is: Generalized anxiety disorder

The correct choice highlights Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), which is characterized by excessive and chronic worry about a variety of topics, often leading to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. In the scenario presented, the 32-year-old man's chronic worry coupled with physical complaints aligns perfectly with the core features of GAD. Individuals with GAD often find it challenging to control their worry, experiencing it as pervasive and affecting multiple areas of their life. This ongoing state of anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms that may resemble those found in other conditions but are essentially psychosomatic in nature. In this context, the man's chronic worry and associated physical symptoms clearly indicate the presence of Generalized Anxiety Disorder. In contrast, other disorders mentioned do not encapsulate the same breadth of symptoms or patterns. Hypochondriasis (now known as Illness Anxiety Disorder) is primarily focused on the preoccupation with having a serious illness, typically without the chronic generalized worry seen in GAD. Social Anxiety Disorder centers around intense fear in social situations, whereas Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is marked by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, rather than generalized worry regarding various life aspects. Thus, GAD is the most fitting diagnosis for the man's chronic