Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What does "Olfactory Hallucination" refer to in the DSM-5?

1. A false perception involving the sensation of touch

2. An imagined perception involving physical pain

3. A sensory experience involving smells that are not present

4. A misinterpretation of real external stimuli from sounds

The correct answer is: A sensory experience involving smells that are not present

The term "Olfactory Hallucination" refers specifically to a sensory experience involving smells that are not present in the environment. This type of hallucination can occur in various mental health disorders and substance use conditions. Individuals experiencing olfactory hallucinations may perceive smells that others do not, which can be distressing and confusing. Often, these smells can be unpleasant or foul, and recognizing them as hallucinations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. In the context of the DSM-5, olfactory hallucinations are classified under the broader category of hallucinations, which can affect any of the senses. Understanding this type of hallucination is important for clinicians, as it can inform treatment decisions and improve patient care. Other types of hallucinations, such as visual or auditory, involve different sensory modalities and do not pertain to smell.