Which of the following is a diagnostic criterion for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is characterized by a set of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, typically the final week leading up to menstruation. The diagnostic criteria for PMDD include the requirement that symptoms must be present during this specific phase and must resolve shortly after menstruation begins.

The correct answer is that individuals must experience five or more symptoms in the final week of their menstrual cycle. This aligns with the DSM-5 criteria which state that symptoms should emerge in the week prior to menses and improve within a few days after the onset of menstruation. These symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, physical symptoms like fatigue, and changes in sleep and appetite.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent PMDD diagnostic criteria. Symptoms lasting for two weeks is inconsistent with PMDD, as the symptoms should not persist throughout the entire menstrual cycle. The requirement to experience symptoms in the first week and the notion that symptoms occur only during pregnancy do not apply to PMDD, as this disorder is linked specifically to the menstrual cycle rather than pregnancy or other time frames. Understanding these nuances helps in the accurate identification and diagnosis of PMDD in clinical practice.