What are the primary features of Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder?

Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder is characterized primarily by persistent episodes of detachment from reality, which aligns precisely with the correct answer. Individuals experiencing this disorder often feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or sense of self, leading to a sense of unreality regarding their external environment. This can manifest as feeling like an outside observer of one’s own life (depersonalization) or experiencing the world as foggy or dreamlike (derealization).

The experience is not simply a fleeting sensation; it is persistent and often distressing, significantly impacting a person's sense of identity and reality. This deep disconnection distinguishes the disorder from other clinical experiences that may involve mood fluctuations, social behaviors, or sensory perceptions.

Other options, while they may seem relevant in a broader psychological context, do not encapsulate the core features of Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder as defined in DSM-5. For instance, severe mood swings and anxiety may appear in various other mood or anxiety disorders but are not hallmark symptoms of depersonalization. Likewise, social withdrawal can occur in a variety of conditions, not specifically indicating depersonalization or derealization. Increased sensory sensitivity is not a defining characteristic of this disorder either, as it more often relates to other