Which of the following are major types of anxiety disorders?

The correct answer encompasses the major types of anxiety disorders, which are widely recognized in psychological literature. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about a variety of topics, and it often includes physical symptoms of anxiety. Panic Disorder involves recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear that can lead to significant behavioral changes. Social Anxiety Disorder entails an intense fear of social situations where one might be judged or scrutinized by others. Specific Phobias are defined by an intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation, leading to avoidance behavior.

These four categories – GAD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Specific Phobias – represent the primary types of anxiety disorders recognized in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), reflecting their clinical significance and prevalence.

The other options either include conditions that are not classified as anxiety disorders, such as depression and somatic symptom disorder, or do not encompass the full range of recognized anxiety disorders, making them less comprehensive and accurate descriptions. This clarity in classification is essential for understanding diagnosis and treatment in clinical settings.