Glossary
Special | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ALL
A |
|---|
AffectA person's observed (moment to moment) externally emotional expression which may be demonstrated through gestures, body language and facial expressions. Compare to definition of mood. |
AkathisiaA condition characterised by motor restlessness. For example, restless legs, rocking from foot to foot, aching legs, pacing, or inability to sit or stand. Symptoms develop within a few weeks of starting or raising the dose of a neuroleptic medication or of reducing the dose of medication used to treat extra-pyramidal symptoms. Alertness and level of consciousness: refers to an individual's ability to be aware of (and respond to) the environment around them. Disturbances of consciousness usually indicate organic brain impairment. |
AnhedoniaLoss of interest in
and withdrawal from all regular and pleasurable activities. In evaluating
anhedonia, inquiring whether the person has lost the sense of pleasure is not
enough. The clinician must document that the patient has actually given up
previously enjoyed pastimes. When mild, anhedonia evidences with a decreased
interest in life. Later, patients complain that they have lost all interest in
things. |
AnxietyApprehension,
tension, or uneasiness from anticipation of danger, the source of which is
largely unknown or unrecognised. Primarily of intra-psychic origin, in
distinction to fear, which is the emotional response to a consciously
recognised and usually external threat or danger. May be regarded as
pathologic when it interferes with effectiveness in living, achievement of
desired goals or satisfaction, or reasonable emotional comfort. |
Apathy / apatheticDulled emotional tone
associated with detachment or indifference; seen in certain types of
schizophrenia and depression. |
Apparent ageHow old the person
looks compared to their actual age. |
AppearanceAppearance refers to the physical characteristics of the person. It includes:
|
Attention and concentrationAbility to sustain focus on one activity. A disturbance in attention may appear as having difficulty in finishing tasks that have been started, being easily distracted, or having difficulty in concentrating. |
Attitude towards clinicianAttitude toward
clinician refers to the person's approach to the interview and interaction with
the clinician, if the person is willing or unwilling to engage, is responsive
to questions, etc. The person's attitude toward the interview and interaction
with the clinician will affect the information elicited. Attitude may change
during the course of the interview as anxiety reduces (or increases). The
development of rapport is an important factor in attitude. |
AttributionAn idea or belief
about the cause of a certain behaviour. |