Which of the following is NOT typically classified as an anxiety disorder?

Which of the following is NOT typically classified as an anxiety disorder?

• A. Panic Disorder
• B. Social Anxiety Disorder
• C. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• D. Persistent Depressive Disorder

Answer: (D)

Understanding how disorders are categorized by the primary experience they involve is the main idea. Panic disorder and social anxiety disorder are classic anxiety disorders, defined by excessive fear, worry, and avoidance tied to situations or sensations. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves persistent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors; in DSM-5 it sits in its own obsessive-compulsive and related disorders category, though it’s often discussed alongside anxiety-related conditions. Persistent Depressive Disorder is a mood disorder, characterized by chronic depressed mood and related symptoms, not primarily driven by fear or anxiety. Because its core issue is mood disturbance rather than anxiety, it is not typically classified as an anxiety disorder.

Understanding how disorders are categorized by the primary experience they involve is the main idea. Panic disorder and social anxiety disorder are classic anxiety disorders, defined by excessive fear, worry, and avoidance tied to situations or sensations. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves persistent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors; in DSM-5 it sits in its own obsessive-compulsive and related disorders category, though it’s often discussed alongside anxiety-related conditions. Persistent Depressive Disorder is a mood disorder, characterized by chronic depressed mood and related symptoms, not primarily driven by fear or anxiety. Because its core issue is mood disturbance rather than anxiety, it is not typically classified as an anxiety disorder.