Social Work Licensing Practice Exam

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is characterized by severe temper outbursts that are disproportionate to the situation and an ongoing irritable or angry mood between these outbursts. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the outbursts must occur, on average, three or more times per week. This frequency is essential in establishing the diagnosis of DMDD, as it differentiates it from other mood disorders.

Outbursts that occur two or three times per week align with this requirement, indicating a significant level of emotional dysregulation. The high frequency of these episodes reflects the severity of the disorder and the impact it has on the individual’s daily functioning and relationships. This pattern shows how individuals with DMDD struggle with managing their emotions, leading to frequent disruptions in their behavior and interactions.

Other choices either suggest a lower frequency of outbursts or indicate a level of emotional regulation that does not meet the criteria for DMDD. For instance, an occurrence once a month or every few weeks does not capture the fact that the disorder is marked by persistent challenges with mood stability and impulse control. Similarly, daily occurrences may suggest a different or more severe problem, which could complicate the