Which disorder is characterized by excessive worry across multiple domains, often with physical symptoms, in youth?

• A. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• B. ADHD
• C. Separation Anxiety Disorder
• D. OCD

Answer: (A)

Excessive, difficult-to-control worry that spans many areas of a young person’s life is the hallmark of generalized anxiety disorder in youth. This means worries about school performance, friendships, family issues, health, and other daily events are present on most days and last for a substantial period (typically months). The worry often comes with physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, sleep problems, or difficulty concentrating, which reinforce the sense of ongoing anxiety.

This pattern fits generalized anxiety disorder rather than the other options. ADHD centers on persistent inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, not pervasive worry across domains. Separation anxiety disorder involves fear or distress specifically about being apart from attachment figures, not broad, multi-domain worry. OCD features intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing distress, rather than generalized worry about multiple life areas.