This activity presents case studies in which

individuals suffer from symptoms of

psychological disorders.

Acknowledgements: This activity was written by Antoinette R. Miller, Clayton

State University

Irene occasionally experiences unpredictable episodes of intense dread, accompanied by chest pains and a sensation of smothering. Her symptoms have no apparent physical cause.

A. obsessive-compulsive disorder B. panic disorderC. agoraphobiaD. posttraumatic stress disorderE. antisocial personality disorder

Jason is so preoccupied with staying Jason is so preoccupied with staying clean that he showers as many as clean that he showers as many as 10 times each day.10 times each day.

A. major depressive disorder B. paranoid schizophreniaC. panic disorderD. bipolar disorderE. obsessive-compulsive disorder

Although she escaped from war-torn Iraq two years ago, Lila still has haunting memories and nightmares. She is also severely depressed.

A. bipolar disorder B. antisocial personality disorderC. post-traumatic stress disorderD. major depressive disorderE. agoraphobia

One day Matt felt optimistic, energetic, and on top of the world. A few days later he felt hopeless and lethargic. He thought that the future looked very grim.

A. panic disorder B. agoraphobiaC. major depressive disorderD. antisocial personality disorderE. bipolar disorder

Claiming that she heard a voice commanding her to warn other people that eating is harmful, Sandy attempts to convince others restaurant patrons not to eat. The psychiatrist to whom she is referred finds that Sandy’s thinking and speech are often fragmented and incoherent. In addition, Sandy has an unreasonable fear that someone is “out to get her.” Consequently, she trusts no one.

A. paranoid schizophrenia B. panic disorderC. bipolar disorderD. post-traumatic stress disorderE. antisocial personality disorder

Dr. Bob has never been able to keep a job. He’s been in and out of jail for charges such as theft, and spousal abuse.

A. post-traumatic stress disorder B. major depressive disorderC. bipolar disorderD. antisocial personality disorderE. obsessive-compulsive disorder

Sadie is so fearful of being overwhelmed by anxiety that she rarely steps outside her apartment. The thought of going shopping and getting lost in a crowd terrifies her, so she has her groceries delivered. Because of her fear, she earns her living as a freelance writer and works at home.

A. obsessive-compulsive disorder B. agoraphobiaC. bipolar disorderD. major depressive disorderE. panic disorder

For the last month Gabrielle has felt lethargic and has been unable to get out of bed in the morning. She has withdrawn from friends and family because she feels worthless and unlovable.

A. major depressive disorder B. antisocial personality disorderC. paranoid schizophreniaD. post-traumatic stress disorderE. bipolar disorder

How do we define “abnormal behavior”?