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 disorder C. agoraphobia D. posttraumatic stress disorder E. antisocial personality disorder

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

A. major depressive disorder B. paranoid schizophrenia C. panic disorder D. bipolar disorder E. 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 disorder C. post-traumatic stress disorder D. major depressive disorder E. 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. agoraphobia C. major depressive disorder D. antisocial personality disorder E. 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 disorder C. bipolar disorder D. post-traumatic stress disorder E. 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 disorder C. bipolar disorder D. antisocial personality disorder E. 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. agoraphobia C. bipolar disorder D. major depressive disorder E. 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 disorder C. paranoid schizophrenia D. post-traumatic stress disorder E. bipolar disorder

 How do we define “abnormal behavior”?