LMSW Practice Test

Mrs. K., age 35, feels inferior and worthless, avoids close relationships, and has mood shifts. Her condition could be diagnosed as

1. borderline personality disorder

2. narcissistic personality disorder

3. overanxious reaction to adulthood

4. reactive depression

The correct answer is: borderline personality disorder

The characterization of Mrs. K.'s behaviors aligns closely with borderline personality disorder. This condition is marked by difficulties in interpersonal relationships, a distorted self-image, and emotional instability. Individuals with borderline personality disorder often struggle with feelings of inferiority and worthlessness, which Mrs. K. experiences. The avoidance of close relationships can also be a reflection of the intense fear of abandonment commonly seen in this disorder. Additionally, frequent mood shifts are a hallmark symptom, where emotions can change rapidly, often as a result of interpersonal stresses or perceived rejections. In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the full range of symptoms presented in Mrs. K.'s case. For instance, narcissistic personality disorder primarily involves a grandiose sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy for others rather than feelings of worthlessness or avoidance. An overanxious reaction to adulthood would typically include excessive worry about performance and social situations, but it does not capture the emotional intensity or relational issues that borderline personality disorder does. Lastly, reactive depression is usually a transient state in response to identifiable stressors, rather than the enduring pattern of behavior and self-image concerns seen in borderline personality disorder. Thus, the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder accurately captures the complexity and specific