Several Large Studies Documented Psychological Problems in Women Before and During

question 59

Multiple Choice

Several large studies documented psychological problems in women before and during pregnancy, after abortion, and after birth. Which statement best summarizes what these studies found regarding "post-abortion stress syndrome"?

• A) The syndrome does not exist; women do not experience psychological problems after abortions.
• B) The syndrome does not exist; women experience psychological problems both after giving birth and after abortions.
• C) The syndrome does not exist; psychological problems after abortion are best predicted by psychological problems prior to abortion.
• D) The syndrome clearly exists; women experience significantly more psychological problems after abortions than they do after births.
• E) The syndrome clearly exists; most women have psychological problems following an abortion.

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Definitions:

Paranoia

A mental condition characterized by delusions of persecution, unwarranted jealousy, or exaggerated self-importance, typically developing as a symptom of schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia

A critical mental health disorder distinguished by deviations in thinking patterns, sensory experiences, emotions, language use, identity, and actions.

Amygdala

A part of the brain's limbic system involved in emotions, survival instincts, and memory, particularly known for its role in processing fear.

Positive Symptoms

Symptoms present in some mental health disorders that are an excess or distortion of normal functions, such as hallucinations or delusions.