Which new depressive disorder is included for children up to age 18 to address persistent irritability and behavioral dyscontrol?

Which new depressive disorder is included for children up to age 18 to address persistent irritability and behavioral dyscontrol?

• A. Bipolar Disorder
• B. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
• C. Major Depression
• D. Cyclothymia

Answer: (B)

This question tests recognition of a DSM-5 diagnosis created to address chronic mood problems in youth. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is the designation for children and adolescents up to age 18 who show severe temper outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation, along with a consistently irritable or angry mood between those outbursts. This pattern is persistent, not episodic, and it’s designed to differentiate chronic mood dysregulation from conditions like bipolar disorder, which involve distinct mood episodes. The idea is to avoid labeling a child as bipolar when the issue is ongoing irritability and dyscontrol, and to guide treatment toward mood regulation and behavioral management. Clinically, features include onset before age 10, occurrences across multiple settings, noticeable impairment, and exclusion of mania or hypomania and other conditions. Treatments emphasize psychotherapy, parent management strategies, school supports, and, when appropriate, medication for related symptoms.

This question tests recognition of a DSM-5 diagnosis created to address chronic mood problems in youth. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is the designation for children and adolescents up to age 18 who show severe temper outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation, along with a consistently irritable or angry mood between those outbursts. This pattern is persistent, not episodic, and it’s designed to differentiate chronic mood dysregulation from conditions like bipolar disorder, which involve distinct mood episodes. The idea is to avoid labeling a child as bipolar when the issue is ongoing irritability and dyscontrol, and to guide treatment toward mood regulation and behavioral management. Clinically, features include onset before age 10, occurrences across multiple settings, noticeable impairment, and exclusion of mania or hypomania and other conditions. Treatments emphasize psychotherapy, parent management strategies, school supports, and, when appropriate, medication for related symptoms.