Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

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A person who experiences a depressed mood more often than not for 2 years would likely be diagnosed with:

  1. Persistent Depressive Disorder

  2. Cyclothymic Disorder

  3. Bipolar I Disorder

  4. Major Depressive Disorder

The correct answer is: Persistent Depressive Disorder

The diagnosis of Persistent Depressive Disorder (also known as Dysthymia) is appropriate for someone who experiences a depressed mood more often than not for a duration of at least two years. This condition is characterized by a chronic form of depression that may not be as severe as Major Depressive Disorder but is persistent and can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning and quality of life. Individuals with Persistent Depressive Disorder often have periods of major depression, but it is the longevity and the almost continuous nature of the depressed mood that distinguish it from other mood disorders. The duration of two years aligns with the diagnostic criteria, making this choice the most fitting for the symptoms described. In contrast, Cyclothymic Disorder refers to chronic mood fluctuations that are less severe than those found in bipolar disorders, lacking the intense episodes of depression required for a Major Depressive Disorder diagnosis. Bipolar I Disorder involves at least one manic episode, which does not align with the symptomatology noted in the question. Major Depressive Disorder requires the occurrence of one or more major depressive episodes but does not capture the chronicity described here. Thus, Persistent Depressive Disorder accurately reflects the long-term nature of the individual’s depressed mood.