A nurse is providing education to a group of nursing students about major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of MDD?
MDD is more prevalent in older adults.
MDD is primarily caused by a single factor, such as genetics.
Anhedonia is a term that describes excessive sleeping.
MDD can be diagnosed if only one symptom is present.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice a. MDD is more prevalent in older adults.
Choice A rationale:
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is indeed more prevalent in older adults. This demographic often faces unique stressors such as chronic illness, loss of loved ones, and social isolation, which can contribute to higher rates of depression.
Choice B rationale:
MDD is not primarily caused by a single factor. It is a complex disorder with multiple contributing factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, environmental influences, and psychological factors.
Choice C rationale:
Anhedonia refers to the loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, not excessive sleeping. Excessive sleeping is known as hypersomnia.
Choice D rationale:
MDD cannot be diagnosed if only one symptom is present. The diagnosis requires the presence of multiple symptoms, including depressed mood or anhedonia, for at least two weeks.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Positive life events, although beneficial, are not typically considered contributors to the development of depression. Positive events generally have a positive impact on mental health and may even serve as protective factors against depression.
Choice B rationale:
High income is not commonly recognized as a direct contributor to depression. In fact, higher income can provide access to better resources and opportunities that might contribute to better mental health outcomes.
Choice C rationale:
Lack of social support is a well-established factor contributing to the development of depression. Social support plays a crucial role in buffering against stress and providing individuals with a sense of belonging and emotional connection. A lack of strong social ties can lead to feelings of isolation and increase vulnerability to depression.
Choice D rationale:
Optimistic thinking is typically considered a protective factor against depression rather than a contributor to its development. Optimistic thinking involves a positive outlook on life and the expectation of positive outcomes, which can act as a resilience factor against depressive symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Genetic theory suggests that a person's genetic makeup can predispose them to develop depression, but it does not specifically address the role of neurotransmitters in depression. While genetics can contribute to the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD), this choice doesn't focus on the neurotransmitter imbalances.
Choice B rationale:
Neuroendocrine theory pertains to the role of hormones in depression, particularly abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. While hormones play a role in mood regulation, this theory does not primarily revolve around neurotransmitter imbalances.
Choice C rationale:
Neurotransmitter theory proposes that an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, contributes to the development of major depressive disorder. This theory aligns with the idea that these neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, reward, cognition, and stress response.
Choice D rationale:
Environmental theory suggests that external factors, such as life events and stressors, contribute to the development of depression. While environment can indeed influence depression, it does not specifically address the neurotransmitter imbalances that are central to this question.
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