Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What does hypervigilance primarily involve according to the DSM-5?

1. An enhanced state of sensory sensitivity to detect threats

2. A state of diminished awareness of environmental stimuli

3. Increased auditory perception only

4. A period of unresponsiveness and mutism

The correct answer is: An enhanced state of sensory sensitivity to detect threats

Hypervigilance is characterized by an enhanced state of sensory sensitivity, primarily to detect potential threats. This heightened alertness is often observed in individuals who have experienced trauma or stress and is a common symptom related to anxiety disorders, especially post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this state, an individual becomes acutely aware of their surroundings, with a tendency to scan the environment for any signs of danger or threats. This can lead to an exaggerated startle response and difficulties in concentration because their focus is primarily on potential risks. Hypervigilance can significantly impact daily functioning and interpersonal relationships, as it may cause an individual to overreact to benign stimuli. The other choices present concepts that do not align with the definition of hypervigilance. For instance, diminished awareness of environmental stimuli suggests a state of disconnection or disengagement, which contradicts the heightened awareness of hypervigilance. Increased auditory perception alone does not encompass overall sensory sensitivity and fails to capture the full scope of hypervigilance, which includes all aspects of heightened awareness. A period of unresponsiveness and mutism describes a different psychological state entirely, not one associated with hypervigilance.