Panic Disorder criterion regarding frequency of panic attacks?

Panic Disorder criterion regarding frequency of panic attacks?

• A. Frequent nightmares.
• B. No fear of social situations.
• C. Complete remission.
• D. Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with at least 1 month of persistent concern about attacks or maladaptive behavioral change.

Answer: (D)

Panic Disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks are recurrent and unexpected, and after the attacks there is at least a month of ongoing worry about having another attack or a notable change in behavior to avoid future attacks. That combination of repeated, unexpected attacks plus a sustained period of concern or avoidance is what the criterion emphasizes. A single panic attack wouldn’t meet the frequency requirement, and the other options describe symptoms that aren’t about recurring attacks or the anticipatory worry/behavior change that follows them.

Panic Disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks are recurrent and unexpected, and after the attacks there is at least a month of ongoing worry about having another attack or a notable change in behavior to avoid future attacks. That combination of repeated, unexpected attacks plus a sustained period of concern or avoidance is what the criterion emphasizes. A single panic attack wouldn’t meet the frequency requirement, and the other options describe symptoms that aren’t about recurring attacks or the anticipatory worry/behavior change that follows them.