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A 32-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department by His

question 328

Multiple Choice

A 32-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by his mother. She says that he has stayed up late every night for the past week, praying and shouting that he is "the Messiah." The patient speaks rapidly without interruption and believes that he has special powers to end all wars and save humankind. He shakes his head in response to voices, saying that there is a fight between good and evil and that he must "drown out the devil." The patient has had a history of psychiatric illness since his early 20s, when he was discharged from the military due to severe depression and suicidal ideation. At that time, he heard voices blaming him for all the suffering in war. He has been hospitalized for several depressive episodes over the past 10 years. Between hospitalizations, he has had periods lasting for several months during which his mood is stable, but he has continued to hear the voices of God and the devil. The patient lives with his mother and is able to work stocking groceries, but he spends most of his time at home alone. He has been prescribed risperidone, but his mother is unsure if he takes it regularly. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Definitions:

Induced Memories

Memories that have been artificially created or suggested, often through psychological manipulation or therapeutic techniques.

Researchers

Individuals who conduct systematic investigations to establish facts, reach new conclusions, and develop new knowledge in various fields of study.

Childhood Amnesia

The phenomenon where adults have few memories from the first years of life.

Prefrontal Cortex

The part of the brain located at the front of the frontal lobe, associated with decision making, social behavior, and personality expression.