Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

William was adopted from an orphanage and has made strides in his development but exhibits clinginess and sleep disturbances. What is his likely diagnosis?

1. Generalized anxiety disorder

2. Separation anxiety disorder

3. Attachment disorder

4. Post-traumatic stress disorder

The correct answer is: Separation anxiety disorder

The scenario presented highlights William's clinginess and sleep disturbances, which are significant indicators of emotional challenges often associated with attachment to caregivers and the anxiety stemming from potential separation. Separation anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive fear or anxiety related to separation from home or attachment figures, particularly in children. This condition can manifest in clinginess, refusal to sleep alone, nightmares, and physical complaints when faced with separation from primary caregivers. William's history of adoption from an orphanage may have contributed to his attachment issues, as children in such settings can experience disruptions in their primary relationships and caregiving experiences. This background aligns well with the features of separation anxiety disorder, making it the most fitting diagnosis in this case. In contrast, generalized anxiety disorder typically involves a more pervasive anxiety about various aspects of life rather than a specific focus on separation, while attachment disorders usually manifest in more severe behavioral problems stemming from inconsistencies in attachment during early development. Post-traumatic stress disorder is often related to exposure to traumatic events and would not primarily account for clinginess and sleep disturbances in the absence of such trauma.