Question

Arlene has suffered several episodes of major depression (at least 50% of the time) since she was fired from her job two years ago. she has also suffered from recurrent hallucinations, delusions, and periods of disorientation and incoherent speech. these symptoms all seem related to her major depressive episodes. she is most likely suffering from ______.
a. schizophreniform disorder
b. schizotypal disorder
c. schizoaffective disorder
d. a brief psychotic episode

Answer 1

The answer is C. Schizoaffective Disorder 
Schizoaffective disorder is a combination of symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders, such as depression . . . . cycles of severe symptoms are often followed by periods of improvement . . . . symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, depressed episodes . . . " (Source Mayo Clinic)

Answer 2

Answer:

Answer: C Schizoaffective disorder because she has presented major depressive episodes in combination with hallucinations, delusions disorientation and incoherent speech for more than 6 months.

Explanation:

According to the DSM V, Both Schizophreniform and Schizoaffective disorders share the following symptoms: hallucinations, delusions, disorientation, and incoherent speech. However, the determining differentiating factor is the time of symptoms presentation, because while schizophreniform disorder lasts between 1 to 6 months. Schizoaffective disorder can last upon 6 to 24 months, exactly the time she has experienced her condition.