Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

Which description best defines "Mood" according to the DSM-5?

1. A temporary emotional state triggered by specific events

2. A sustained emotion that influences perception of the world

3. An intense feeling of anxiety or panic

4. A fluctuating emotional state changing rapidly

The correct answer is: A sustained emotion that influences perception of the world

The definition of "mood" according to the DSM-5 emphasizes its nature as a sustained emotional state that profoundly influences an individual's perception and interpretation of their experiences and the world around them. Mood is generally more enduring than emotions, which can be short-lived and often triggered by specific events. This sustained quality of mood can affect an individual's behavior, thought patterns, and overall mental functioning, playing a critical role in various psychological conditions, such as depression or bipolar disorder. In contrast, the other descriptions do not accurately encapsulate the concept of mood. A temporary emotional state triggered by specific events refers more to emotions than to mood since emotions are typically fleeting and context-dependent. An intense feeling of anxiety or panic is more specific to certain anxiety disorders and does not capture the broader concept of mood. A fluctuating emotional state suggests rapid changes that align more closely with affect rather than the stability associated with mood. Therefore, the best description of "mood" aligns with its definition in the DSM-5 as a sustained and pervasive state affecting overall emotional experience and perception.