Which disorder is an abnormal craving or appetite for nonfood substances lasting at least 1 month?

Which disorder is an abnormal craving or appetite for nonfood substances lasting at least 1 month?

• A. Pica
• B. Rumination Disorder
• C. Tic Disorders
• D. ADHD

Answer: (A)

Pica is the eating of nonnutritive substances for at least a month, with the behavior inappropriate for development and not culturally sanctioned. This persistent craving and ingestion of nonfood items—such as dirt, clay, ice, or paper—fits the description asked by the question, especially with the specified duration. This differs from the other conditions: rumination disorder involves regurgitating swallowed food; tic disorders feature sudden, repetitive movements or sounds; ADHD centers on inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Pica often requires evaluation for nutritional deficiencies or medical risks (like iron deficiency or contamination) and may be addressed with behavioral strategies and treating underlying causes.

Pica is the eating of nonnutritive substances for at least a month, with the behavior inappropriate for development and not culturally sanctioned. This persistent craving and ingestion of nonfood items—such as dirt, clay, ice, or paper—fits the description asked by the question, especially with the specified duration.

This differs from the other conditions: rumination disorder involves regurgitating swallowed food; tic disorders feature sudden, repetitive movements or sounds; ADHD centers on inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Pica often requires evaluation for nutritional deficiencies or medical risks (like iron deficiency or contamination) and may be addressed with behavioral strategies and treating underlying causes.