In DSM-5, Separation Anxiety Disorder is classified as what type of disorder and what is noted about its expression?

In DSM-5, Separation Anxiety Disorder is classified as what type of disorder and what is noted about its expression?

• A. A mood disorder; expressions are limited to childhood
• B. An obsessive-compulsive and related disorder; expressions occur in adolescence
• C. An anxiety disorder; expressions can occur in adulthood
• D. A psychotic disorder; expressions are present only during stress

Answer: (C)

Separation anxiety disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder, reflecting that the core issue is excessive fear and anxiety about separation from attachment figures, with distress and impairment across settings. Importantly, its expression is not confined to childhood; it can appear for the first time in adulthood or persist into adulthood. This recognition in DSM-5 means the condition can be diagnosed in adults who meet the criteria, not just in children.

Separation anxiety disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder, reflecting that the core issue is excessive fear and anxiety about separation from attachment figures, with distress and impairment across settings. Importantly, its expression is not confined to childhood; it can appear for the first time in adulthood or persist into adulthood. This recognition in DSM-5 means the condition can be diagnosed in adults who meet the criteria, not just in children.