Which statement best defines separation anxiety disorder?

• A. Persistent fear of strangers
• B. Chronic depressed mood
• C. Mania episodes with grandiose thoughts
• D. Excessive anxiety concerning separation from attached person that interferes with daily living

Answer: (D)

Separation anxiety disorder is defined by excessive, developmentally inappropriate fear or anxiety about being separated from a major attachment figure, such as a parent, that leads to significant distress or impairment in daily functioning. In practical terms, someone with this pattern may become extremely upset at the idea of leaving home, insist on staying very close to the attachment figure, have trouble going to school or work, experience nightmares about separation, or report physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches when separation is anticipated. This level of worry and the resulting disruption in activities—school, work, social life—distinguish it from normal worries.

The other statements describe different conditions. A persistent fear of strangers aligns more with social anxiety or a specific fear unrelated to attachment. A chronic depressed mood points to a mood disorder such as major depressive disorder, while mania with grandiose thoughts indicates a bipolar spectrum condition. The defining feature of separation anxiety disorder is the excessive anxiety about separation from an attached person that interferes with daily living.