American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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What is the minimum duration required for symptoms to be considered a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder?

3 months
6 months
1 year
2 years

The correct answer is: 6 months

For a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, the symptoms must persist for a minimum duration of 6 months. This timeframe is significant because it helps differentiate transient feelings of anxiety, which many individuals may experience in social situations, from a more chronic condition that significantly impairs an individual's ability to function in daily life. In practice, this 6-month duration reflects the requirement in diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). The goal of this criterion is to ensure that the anxiety is not just a temporary reaction to a specific situation but rather a more pervasive pattern that warrants clinical attention. By establishing a clear timeframe, clinicians can more accurately identify individuals who truly struggle with social anxiety disorder and may benefit from a comprehensive treatment plan.