Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

How is a person characterized if they have difficulty identifying and expressing feelings in words?

1. Alexithymia

2. Depression

3. Anxiety

4. Psychosis

The correct answer is: Alexithymia

A person who has difficulty identifying and expressing feelings in words is characterized by alexithymia. This term specifically refers to the inability to identify and articulate one’s emotions, which can lead to challenges in emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships. Individuals with alexithymia may struggle to understand the physical sensations associated with their emotions and often find it hard to connect with their own feelings or those of others. In contrast, depression primarily involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities, but does not specifically address the difficulty in verbalizing emotions. Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry and fear, which may include emotional expression, but the focus is on the experience of anxiety itself rather than the ability to identify feelings. Psychosis refers to a disconnection from reality, including delusions or hallucinations, rather than a difficulty in expressing emotions. The distinct features of alexithymia make it the correct answer in this context.