Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

For a patient presenting with severe mood symptoms and fears of abandonment, which therapeutic approach is most suitable?

1. Interpersonal therapy

2. Cognitive-behavioral therapy

3. Family therapy

4. Supportive therapy

The correct answer is: Cognitive-behavioral therapy

In the scenario of a patient exhibiting severe mood symptoms alongside fears of abandonment, the most suitable therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is particularly effective for addressing mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, through its structured approach to identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors. This form of therapy focuses on the cognitive distortions that may contribute to the patient’s mood symptoms and fears, enabling the patient to develop coping strategies and resilience. By challenging irrational beliefs and fostering healthier thought processes, CBT can help reduce the intensity of mood symptoms and mitigate the fears of abandonment. While interpersonal therapy can also be beneficial for those with interpersonal issues, it primarily focuses on improving communication patterns and social functioning rather than directly addressing the cognitive aspects of mood disorders. Family therapy can be useful in exploring familial dynamics and support systems, but it may not tackle the individual cognitive and emotional challenges that drive mood fluctuations. Supportive therapy, while providing encouragement and empathy, often lacks the structured intervention necessary to effectively address the cognitive components linked with mood symptoms. Therefore, considering the patient's presentation, CBT stands out as the most targeted and effective approach for managing both mood symptoms and fears of abandonment.