What characterizes Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder?

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is characterized primarily by severe temper outbursts that are disproportionate to the provocation or situation. These outbursts can manifest in various ways, such as verbal rage, physical aggression towards people or property, and they are more intense than what might be expected given the circumstances. The key aspect that makes this disorder distinct is that the emotional responses and outbursts are excessive relative to the triggers, indicating a significant dysregulation of mood and emotion.

The disorder must also be persistent, with symptoms occurring frequently and leading to considerable impairment in social, educational, or other important areas of functioning. The diagnosis is appropriate for children and adolescents aged 6 to 18, and the rule-out criteria emphasize that these symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder. Thus, the correct option aligns with the core features of DMDD as defined in the DSM-5-TR, highlighting the severity and disproportionateness of the outbursts in connection to the child's overall mood dysregulation.