_____ disorder is the experience of long-term, persistent anxiety and worry.A. Generalized anxietyB. Obsessive-compulsiveC. PhobiaD. Panic

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the type of disorder described in the question.
2. Analyze each answer option to find the correct one that matches the description.

Relevant Concepts

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of daily life.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Involves unwanted recurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions).
• Phobia: An irrational fear of a specific object or situation.
• Panic Disorder: Characterized by recurring panic attacks that lead to significant anxiety about future attacks.

Analysis and Detail

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Involves long-term anxiety and widespread worry across many aspects of life – this matches the description.
2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Although it involves anxiety, it is more specific to obsessions and compulsions.
3. Phobia: Specific fear characterized by anxiety related to a particular object or situation, not a general persistent worry.
4. Panic Disorder: Focuses on episodic panic attacks rather than long-term anxiety or worry.

Verify and Summarize

Upon analyzing all the options, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the only one that fits the definition of long-term, persistent anxiety and worry.

Final Answer

A. Generalized anxiety