Mood Disorders — MCQs

Q: Which of the following is least characteristic of mania?

Disorientation. ***Disorientation*** - While psychotic features can occur in severe mania, **disorientation** (confusion about time, place, or person) is not a typical or primary symptom. - It suggests a more profound cognitive disturbance or an organic cause (such as delirium), which is less characteristic of an uncomplicated manic episode. - The presence of disorientation should prompt evaluation for medical causes. *Decreased need for sleep* - **Decreased need for sleep** is a hallmark symptom of a manic episode and one of the core diagnostic criteria. - Individuals with mania feel energetic and rested despite sleeping very little (often 2-3 hours or less). - This is distinct from insomnia—patients don't feel tired or have difficulty sleeping; rather, they simply don't need much sleep. *Pressure of speech* - **Pressure of speech**, characterized by rapid, loud, and difficult-to-interrupt speech, is a core diagnostic feature of mania. - It reflects the underlying racing thoughts (flight of ideas) and increased psychomotor activity typical of manic episodes. - Speech may be tangential, circumstantial, or filled with puns, jokes, and theatrical references. *Grandiose delusions* - **Grandiose delusions** (delusions of grandeur), such as believing one has special powers, extraordinary wealth, or a special relationship with famous figures, are common psychotic features in severe mania. - These delusions are mood-congruent and consistent with the elevated mood, inflated self-esteem, and impaired judgment seen in manic episodes.

Practice by Chapter

Major Depressive Disorder

Practice Questions

Bipolar Disorder: Manic Episodes

Practice Questions

Bipolar Disorder: Depressive and Mixed Episodes

Practice Questions

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Practice Questions

Cyclothymic Disorder

Practice Questions

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Practice Questions

Suicide and Suicidal Behavior

Practice Questions

Pharmacotherapy of Mood Disorders

Practice Questions

Psychotherapy for Mood Disorders

Practice Questions

Brain Stimulation Therapies

Practice Questions

Treatment-Resistant Depression

Practice Questions

Mood Disorders in Special Populations

Practice Questions

Want unlimited practice?

Get full access to all questions, explanations, and performance tracking.

Start For Free

Scan to download app