Social Work Exam Human Behavior Practice Test 2026 – Complete Prep

The diagnosis of passive-aggressive personality reflects a pattern of indirectly expressing negative feelings instead of openly addressing them. In this scenario, the young man's sullen demeanor and tardiness to appointments may indicate feelings of resentment or dissatisfaction, particularly if he perceives mistreatment at work but does not confront it directly.

Individuals exhibiting passive-aggressive traits often display behaviors such as procrastination, stubbornness, and sulking, rather than overtly expressing their frustrations. The young man's choice to arrive late and maintain a sullen attitude can be seen as indirect communication of his grievances, which aligns with the characteristics of passive-aggressive behavior.

While the other options—depressive disorder, borderline personality disorder, and adjustment disorder—can also present with elements of sadness or interpersonal conflicts, they do not specifically capture the essence of passive aggression, where the individual's behavior is characterized more by avoidance and indirect expression of resentment rather than overt emotional turmoil or instability. Thus, the behavior described is more aptly classified under passive-aggressive personality.