Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) Disorders Practice Exam

Tardive Dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary, purposeless movements that can manifest as facial grimacing, tongue movements, and other repetitive motion patterns. This condition typically arises as a long-term side effect of prolonged use of antipsychotic medications, which are primarily used to treat mental health disorders such as schizophrenia. The movements associated with Tardive Dyskinesia are generally considered involuntary, meaning the individual does not have control over them, and they may persist even after the medication has been discontinued.

In contrast, Delusional Disorder primarily involves the presence of one or more delusions without the involuntary movement symptoms characteristic of Tardive Dyskinesia. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome is a serious and potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications but is not defined by involuntary movements; instead, it includes severe muscle rigidity and autonomic instability. Parkinsonism, while it can involve movement disorders, is primarily related to a reduction in dopamine levels and can be a side effect of antipsychotic medications, but the purposeless, repetitive movements typical of Tardive Dyskinesia are not its defining feature. Therefore, Tardive Dyskinesia is the best fit for the condition focused