Person preoccupied by worries about ill health is –
**Core Concept**
Personality traits and psychological characteristics are essential in understanding an individual's behavior and coping mechanisms. In this context, the concept of hypochondriasis or illness anxiety disorder is being tested, which is characterized by excessive worry about one's health despite medical reassurance. This involves a preoccupation with fears of having a serious illness.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Person preoccupied by worries about ill health is a classic description of a hypochondriac. Hypochondriasis is a type of anxiety disorder where an individual excessively worries about having a serious illness. This preoccupation often leads to excessive health-related behaviors, such as repeatedly checking for symptoms or seeking reassurance from healthcare providers. The underlying mechanism involves an exaggerated fear response, which is not proportionate to the actual risk of the feared illness.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not specifically related to the description of a hypochondriac. A person with a somatic symptom disorder would experience one or more chronic physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition.
* **Option B:** Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by social avoidance due to fear of criticism or rejection, which does not directly relate to health-related worries.
* **Option C:** This option is not relevant to the description of a hypochondriac. A person with obsessive-compulsive disorder would exhibit repetitive behaviors or thoughts that are intrusive and distressing.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Hypochondriasis is often associated with a high level of anxiety and a preoccupation with health-related thoughts, which can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily life. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize and address these concerns to provide appropriate treatment and support.
**Correct Answer: C. A person preoccupied by worries about ill health is a classic description of a hypochondriac.**